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BIBLIOGRAPHY 

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THE 

EARLY BIBLIOGRAPHY 



PROVINCE OF ONTARIO. 



DOMINION OF CANADA, 



WITH OTHER INFORMATION. 



A SUPPLEMENTAL CHAPTER OF CANADIAN ARCHAEOLOGY. 



BY 

WILLIAM KIXGSFORD, LL.D., F.R.S. [C] 



TORONTO : 
ROWSELL & HUTCHISON. 

MONTREAL : 

EBEX PICKEN. 

1892. 



$3//. 



■a/ 

Entered according to Act of Parliament, in the year of our Lord one thousand 
eight hundred and ninety -two, by William Kingsford, in the office of the 
Minister of Agriculture. 



"2 1^ X. 



"Witness" Printing House, 
Montreal. 



11 Every work must be judged by its design, and is to be valued 
by its result." 

Disraeli, " Curiosities of Literature." 
Preface, 1839. 



" Ich weiss wohl," sagte Goethe, " dass es schwer ist, aber die 
Auffassung und Darstellung des Besondern ist auch das eigentliche 
Leben der Kunst." Mitwoch den 29 October, 1823. 

Gesprache mit Goethe in den letzen Jahren seines Lebens. 

Johann Peter Eckerman. 

[" I know well it is hard," said Goethe, "but the apprehension 
and representation of what is special is also the real life of art."] 
Wednesday, the 29th of October, 1823. 

Conversations with Goethe in the last years of his life. 

John Peter Eckerman. 



EAELY BIBLIOG-EAPHT. 



Six years ago, in 1886, I published a work on Canadian 
Archaeology, in which I endeavoured to give a history of the 
first printed books in the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. 
There was no great difficulty with regard to the former. 
The subject had been closely studied for some years by men 
of acknowledged attainments ; and, although not reduced to 
form and system, and somewhat scattered, much valuable 
information had been gathered. I was particularly indebted 
to my accomplished friend, Abbe Yerreault, who threw open 
to me the wealth of his library and the hospitality of his 
home, the first of the many occasions which I have passed 
in his society and of the men gathered about him. I may 
mention especially the late Sheriff Chauveau, whom I con- 
stantly met there, and Mr. Desmazures, a Saint Sulpician of 
rare learning. In Ottawa, Mr. de Celles, of the Library, 
aided me with his knowledge, and I was thus enabled to 
bring together, in an accessible form, what information had 
been obtained about the early literary history of the province 
of Quebec. It is conceded by all whose opinions are in any 
way worthy of respect that the printing-press was unknown 
in the French regime, and that the history of printing books 
dates from the conquest. I have entered into this subject at 



length in the volume in question; therefore, there is no 
need for reference to it in this place. What is there related, 
gathered from the knowledge of those who preceded me, is 
admitted to be correct ; at least, I have not heard that any 
part of the narrative has been impugned. 

I did not experience the same good fortune in Ontario. 
The subject, I will venture the remark, had never received 
even slight attention until I approached it, and consequently 
my endeavour to obtain reliable information was not attended 
with success. Those to whom I addressed myself, who I 
regarded as having knowledge concerning the bibliography 
of Ontario, had not considered it from the aspect submitted 
by me ; and although there was every desire to assist me, I 
found few who were capable of doing so. Dr. Brymner gave 
me whatever aid he was able, and Mr. Beverley Eobinson, 
then Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, made great exertions 
to learn the titles of the first jDrinted books. Mr. Eobinson 
had during his government rendered excellent service in a 
cognate branch of inquiry. With great labour on his part 
he was enabled to obtain access to the original portraits of 
the governors and the administrators of the former province 
of Upper Canada, from its first establishment ; and the 
liberality of the Legislature enabled him to obtain copies of 
what may be unhesitatingly pronounced to be authentic 
portraits of the governors to the union of the province ; 
except in the case of Governor Peter Hunter, of whom no 
portrait can be found. It is to me astounding that so little 
recognition has been made of the labours of Mr. Beverley 
Robinson, and also of his brother, Colonel Robinson, of the 
imperial service, in thus bringing together this valuable 
collection which the province possesses. Few even know of 
the existence of these portraits ; certainly few have borne 
testimony to the labour and perseverance with which Mr. 



Robinson followed out his plan until he had perfected the 
collection to the fullest extent possible. It exacted a long and 
often embarrassing correspondence with the family in whose 
possession the portrait was to be found. Access to it had to 
be obtained, and copies made to be sent to Canada. Ontario 
is singularly fortunate in possessing, in a connected series, 
portraits of her governors from the earliest date : not fanci- 
ful works of art, christened by auctioneers and dealers, but 
of undoubted authenticity. 

An acknowledgment must also be made to Sir Oliver Mowat 
and the members of his Government, for their ready accept- 
ance of Mr. Beverley Robinson's proposition, and for obtain- 
ing from the Legislature the material aid to carry it out. 
It is a passage in Ontario political life of pleasant memory, 
and reflects honour on the Legislature of that period, and on 
all concerned. 

The inquiries, which at the time were continued with 
some pertinacity, ended in the conclusion that the first 
Ontario book, " out of the domain of Statute Law and the 
Parliamentary Journals," was printed in the year 1832 ; when 
the History of the War of 1812, by David Thompson, 
"Printed by T. Sewell, Printer, Book-binder and Stationer, 
Market Square, ^Niagara, 1832," was published. The statement 
remained uncontradicted until 1888, when public attention 
was drawn to the subject, and Mr. Gagnon, of Saint 
Roch, Quebec, in a published letter gave the names of 
several earlier volumes, some of which are in his posses- 
sion, and he established by catalogues that other works were 
known. A correspondence on this point took place in the 
Toronto Mail, and some discussion was awakened. Since 
that date Mr. Gagnon has continued his research, and Mr. 
Bain, of the Toronto Library, has likewise made great exer- 
tions to increase our knowledge on the subject. 



8 

As much has been learned since the publication of my 
former volume, which, I will take upon myself to say, gave 
the first impetus to this inquiry, I consider that the time 
has arrived when a supplementary chapter can be profitably 
written, embodying the information which has been obtained. 
I have accordingly methodized, in the form now presented, 
the facts we now possess. I by no means claim them to be 
final. I trust, however, within the limit enforced upon me, 
they will be found in the words of Juvenal to be 

. . . remota 
Erroris nebula ... 

Whatever the imperfections of the list now published, it 
is certainly far in advance of the conclusions expressed in 
the work of 1886. I have to acknowledge the courtesy of 
those friends who aided me in this inquiry, to whom I feel 
under great obligation for communicating many of the 
leading facts. 

In my former work, I excepted publications bearing upon 
statute law, journals of the legislature and pamphlets. I 
purpose in this compilation to include every description of 
printed book which will throw light on the social condition 
of this early period. I cannot claim the record to be beyond 
dispute. It is scarcely possible to attain this result even 
with a far greater extent of labour and inquiry than I am 
able to devote to the subject. I trust, however, that I will 
be enabled clearly to establish the continued progress made 
in our political life, and to furnish my testimony to the 
increased literary activity observable from the days of the 
first lieutenant-governor. 

At the time of the passage of the Canada Act, on the 14th 
of March, 1791, constituting the two distinct provinces of 
Upper and Lower Canada, Lord Dorchester was governor- 
in-chief. He had held that position since 1786, having 



been named in succession to Haldimancl. The latter left 
Canada in 1784, the Government having been administered 
in the intervening two years by Hamilton, and afterwards 
by Hope. Dorchester remained in Canada until the 18th of 
August, 1791, when Sir Alured Clarke was sworn in as 
lieutenant-governor and commander-in-chief. On the 17th 
of November of this year, Simcoe arrived at Quebec, bringing 
with him instructions restricting Clarke's powers to Lower 
Canada, with an official copy of the new act and instructions 
to divide the province of Quebec into the newly-established 
political divisions of Upper and Lower Canada. The pro- 
clamation was accordingly issued declaring the division, 
which took effect on the 26th of December, 1791. Simcoe 
remained the winter at Quebec, and it was not until the 
summer of 1792 he reached L'pper Canada. On the 16th 
of July he issued a jDroclaniation, in which he established 
the electoral divisions for which representatives should be 
returned. 

The members chosen for these electoral districts forming 
the first legislature of L^pper Canada met at Newark 
[Niagara] on Monday, the 17th of September, 1792. Accord- 
ing to the official reports of that meeting, it was on that 
day that Simcoe made his opening speech, which inaugurated 
the working of the constitution in Upper Canada. A copy 
of this speech, with the replies of the Legislative Council 
and of the House of Assembly, with Simcoe's speech on the 
prorogation of "Wednesday, the 15th of October, has been 
preserved. I have not heard of there being a second copy. 
If this sheet be genuine, it is the earliest example of political 
printing in Ontario. But doubts have been strongly ex- 
pressed on this point by those capable of judging ; and it 
has been supposed that the sheet in question is a reprint of 
a later date ; at what time it cannot even be surmised. 



10 

There is an extraordinary mistake in this paper. The 
official copy of the proceedings of the House unmistakably 
establish that Simcoe's speech was delivered on Monday, the 
17th of September, whereas the date given in this sheet is 
Tuesday, the 18th of September. No printer's name is 
attached. By a strange coincidence, Gourlay, when alluding 
to this speech, mentions the date of its delivery similarly to 
that as it appears on the sheet, and the printed italic lines are 
identical in the two. Arguing that we are dealing with a 
reprint, the query is pertinent : Did Gourlay follow the 
reprint, or the reprint Gourlay ? Moreover, the type of the 
sheet has been pronounced as not being that of a font in use 
in Niagara at the time. 

There is a minor fact in connection with this proceeding. 
On the 29th of November, 1792, Simcoe transmits t© King, 
the Under-Secretary of State, an " authentic " copy of the 
speech delivered at the prorogation on the 15th of October, 
1792. [Can. Arch., Q. 279, L, p. 217.] The letter consists 
of only a few lines, and explains that this course has been 
taken owing to the first copy sent having been inaccurate. 
The sheet itself is undoubtedly official in character : it is 
not an utter impossibility that it was printed to be included 
in Simcoe's letter of the 29th of November. No occasion 
suggests itself why a reprint should have been made at any 
time. The error of date which escaped observation could 
have crept in at an early, as at a later period. The same 
remark is applicable to the introduction of italics. It is 
likewise worthy of notice that only one copy of this paper is 
known, and that its pedigree is traceable to the descendants 
of Mr. Powell, subsequently Clerk of the House. I do not 
feel myself called upon to do more than to state the facts as 
I have heard them narrated. I venture, however, to express 
the opinion, that it could not be a reprint from Gourlay, 



11 

because that volume* gives only the speeches of Simcoe on 
opening and proroguing the legislature, and not the address in 
answer to the speech, either of the legislative council, or of 
the house of assembly ; whereas, both are reported in the 
paper in question. 

The authenticity of this sheet to some extent includes the 
inquiry whether at this date a printing press was in operation 
at Newark. Louis Eoy was the printer of the first paper in 
Ontario, "The Upper Canada Gazette or American Oracle" 
which appeared on the 13th of April, 1793. This paper 
continued to be printed at Niagara until August, 1798. It 
appeared in York [Toronto] the folio wing October. Whether 
Koy's undertaking was the result of his own enterprise, or 
was commenced through the intervention of Simcoe, it is 
not easy positively to determine. It is not unreasonable to 
suppose that to some extent it owed its origin to Simcoe, 
who had passed the preceding winter at Quebec. On the 
16th of July, 1792, Simcoe issued his proclamation dividing 
the province into electoral districts, which, doubtless, was 
printed, and has been preserved to posterity by having been 
included in the statutes of 1831, of Hugh C. Thompson and - 
James Macfarlane. The belief has been expressed that the 
document was prepared at Quebec previous to Simcoe's 
ascent of the Saint Lawrence ; and it is a reasonable sup- 
position that Simcoe furnished sufficient inducements for a 
printer to establish himself at the new seat of government, 
when, as Governor, he entered upon his duties. In judging 
the genuineness of the sheet in question, it must also be 
borne in mind that it was printed, if contemporary, six 
months previous to the establishment of Koy's paper ; a fact 

* " Statistical Account of Upper Canada, compiled with a View 
to a Grand System of Emigration." 

Robert Gourlay. London, 1822. Vol. II. p. 110. 



12 

which may explain the difference of type that has been 
pointed out.* 



Very little is known of the early journals of the House of 
Assembly, and the opinion prevails that they were not 
regularly printed until 1820 or 1821. The first printed copy 
in the Parliamentary Library is that of the session of 1821. 
The publication of the journals of the House, so far as is 
known, did not take place until 1801, when £300 [$1200] 
was granted for printing the acts and journals [1st Session, 
3rd Parliament]. 

The title of this volume was : — 

"Journal [ of the | House of Assembly | of | Upper 
Canada | Prom the twenty-eighth of May to the ninth of 
July, 1801 | both days inclusive | In the forty-first year of 
the reign of | King George the Third | Being the first Session 
of the Third Provincial Parliament of this | Province | York, 

* In Sabin's " Bibliothera Americana," Vol. XIX., p. 568, the 
following notice is taken of Simcoe's speech : — , 

" Simcoe. Speech of John Graves Simcoe, Esq. * * Nigara 
[sic]. Printed 1796. 8vo. Also, Speech * * Printed in Upper 
Canada by Louis Roy, 1793. 8vo. These two titles are taken from 
a bookseller's catalogue. " 

Roy did not remain more than some months in Upper Canada. 
The first number of the Upper Canada Gazette, printed by him in 
Niagara, appeared on the 18th April, 1793. There is ground for 
the opinion that he took part in the establishment of the Montreal 
Gazette, the first number of which was published on the 3rd of 
August, 1795. It is not known when Roy left Niagara. 

One of the earliest examples of political printing is in the posses- 
sion of Mr. Bain, Toronto: "Proclamation on the Settlement of 
Lands." Reprinted at Newark by " G. Tiffany, 1795." 



13 

Upper Canada : Printed by order of the House of Assembly, 
by John Bennett | Printer to the King's most excellent 
Majesty | 1801." 4to. pp. viii., and 66pp. 

If the journals of 1802 and 1803 were printed, no copies- 
are extant. In the 4th Session, 1804, the Act was repealed, 
<£80 out of the £300 being appropriated for the statutes. 
In 1806, the proceedings in the second Session of the 4th 
Parliament were published, in 8vo, 34pp. 

I believe it may be assumed that the journals were 
printed until 1806. After that year they were discontinued, 
owing to the expense ; such being the cause assigned in a 
despatch of Lieutenant-Governor Gore to the Honourable 
William Windham. They were certainly printed in 1821, 
whether previously to that date cannot be stated. The 
impression, however, prevails that the printed journals were 
only resumed at that date. Xo copies are known for the 
years 1822, 1823 and 1824, after which time they are regu- 
larly continued. 

The above account may not be considered very satisfac- 
tory, but it is all that is known. Mr. Bain, of the Toronto 
Library, who has bestowed much careful consideration to 
the subject, may be regarded as an authority for the know- 
ledge we possess. I have to acknowledge his valuable 
assistance in the compilation I have made. I may thus 
claim to have gathered all the information obtainable ; it 
must remain in its present condition, until supplemented by 
others who are better informed. 

Thus it may be said there are no printed copies of the 
journals of the Legislature of the old province of Upper 
Canada to be found previous to 1825. The few scattered 
odd numbers which remain are in the hands of book 
collectors. The journals themselves are in MS. in the 
Parliamentary Library, having been obtained from the 



14 

Colonial Office. Some years, however, are absent, but they 
are to be found elsewhere in the Dominion. 

This is hardly the condition in which we should find the 
journals of the first parliaments of the wealthy province of 
Ontario. I venture, therefore, to bring the subject to the 
attention of Sir Oliver Mowat and his ministry, so that they 
can consider the wisdom of having them copied and printed. 
Sir Oliver Mowat, himself a man of letters, will not, I am 
sure, fail to see the force of this recommendation. His govern- 
ment has always acted as the patron of literature and art in 
striking and honourable contrast to the Dominion govern- 
ment, which pertinaciously frowns down and discourages all 
literary labour, except that of the enforced duty of assuring 
their continuance in power. 

"See the players well bestowed " says Hamlet to Polonius. 
"Do you hear, let them be well used, for they are the 
abstract and brief chronicles of the time : after your death 
you were better have a bad epitaph than ill report while you 
live." Those who turn the deaf ear of ignorant indifference 
to the claims of honest literature would do well to ponder 
over these words. It is a time when false reputations are on 
one side swept away, on the other when merit obtains sure, 
if slow, recognition. It is an age of intelligence to call forth 
a nemesis for all neglect of duty ; and however great the 
temporary success conferred by power, the hour is certain, 
early or late, when every prominent career will be fairly 
judged. Those who have lived on purchased praise will 
hereafter take their true place in history, be it good or bad, 
according to their deserts. 

Sir Oliver Mowat* has shewn broad and generous views in 

* The honour which Sir Oliver Mowat received from the hand 
of the Queen on the observance of her last birthday, has led to 
some strange comment. In my poor judgment, the acceptance 



15 

his recognition of the claims of literature and art. His support 
of Mr. Beverley Eohinson in his endeavour to bring together 
the valuable gallery of the portraits of the governors of 
Ontario, can never be forgotten, for the portraits will remain 
for all time. 

In the humble view of the writer, these journals should 
be copied and printed. They would not make above four 
volumes of 500pp., and the cost would not exceed some sum 
between 84,000 to $6,000. There is no necessity for a large 
edition ; five hundred copies would be sufficient for the 
legislature and the public libraries, with a certain number 
offered for private sale at the cost of paper and printing. 

It requires no argument to sustain the view that the 
documentary history of the country is incomplete until these 
journals are made accessible. There is much which can still 
be learned from them. They form the early record of our 
first political being, and to the student there is much that 
may be read with profit. 

It is not on the ground of obtaining symmetry in the list 
of public documents available to research, that this course is 
advocated, but from the feeling of the public utility which 
will be derived by its adoption. 



of such a distinction is purely a matter which concerns the recipient 
alone. It is for him to determine whether his circumstances, his 
antecedents, his sentiments, justify its acceptance. The doctrinaire 
opinion, which ignores this feeling, is, as Pope tells us, ' ' but leather 
or prunella. Those who, with myself, sympathise with Sir 
Oliver's devotion to the great British Empire, and remember his 
useful and honourable life, have given him their warmest uncon- 
ditional congratulations, with the hope he will long live to enjoy 
the distinction. It will be the historian's duty to record of him : 
" he did love his country ; it honoured him." 



16 

There is ground for belief that the Statutes were regularly 
printed year by year from 1792, although but few of the 
early statutes are in existence. The only yearly volumes 
known to be preserved are in the Toronto Library, viz., 
1798, 1799, 1800, 1801. The fact of the early annual 
publication is established by the following advertisement, 
which appears in the Upper Canada Gazette, Vol. III., No. 3, 
9th November, 1796: — "Just received and ready to be 
delivered, ' The Laws of the 5th Session/ with a table of 
contents to the whole volumes complete." The first con- 
solidation of the statutes, according to the title page, was 
made in 1802. It is a question if the date was a misprint, 
for the volume includes the Acts of the Sessions of 1803- 
1804. It is probable that the later statutes may have been 
subsequently published as a continuation of the volume, and 
issued as a supplement. The volume is a small 4 to. The 
title :— 

"The | Statutes | of His Majesty's Province of | Upper 
Canada | enacted by the King's Most Excellent Majesty by 
and with the consent of the | Legislative Council and 
Assembly of the said Province, constituted and assembled 
by virtue | of and under the authority of an Act of Parlia- 
ment of Great Britain, &c, &c, York | Printed under the 
authority and by command of His Excellency Peter | Hunter, 
Esquire, Lieutenant Governor of the Province of L T pper 
Canada, and Lieutenant General commanding His Majesty's 
forces in Upper and Lower | Canada, By John Bennett, 
Printer to the King's Most Excellent Majesty | 1802." 

The Upper Canadian Acts are preceded by several Imperial 
Acts. An index closes the volume. Mr. Bain, to whom I 
am indebted for this information, points out that throughout 
the heading of the volume the "Fourth Session of the 
Fourth Parliament" is printed instead of "Third Parlia- 



17 

ment." A correction of this mistake is made in the 
"Errata." 

A second consolidation was made in 1811, published at 
"York, Upper Canada," Printed by John Cameron . . . 
1811. Alarge4to. 

The third consolidation was carried out in 1818 : "The | 
Provincial statutes of j Upper Canada | revised corrected 
and republished | by | authority | Samuel Smith Esquire 
administrator | York printed by E. C. Home 1818." Small 
4to. 

This volume, although bearing the date 1818, contains 
the statutes of 1819. 
j( A complete edition of the statutes compiled by Xickalls 
was published at Kingston in 1831, containing all public 
acts from 1791 to 1831. 
v* In 1843 an edition was published at Toronto by Stanton, 
which contained all the acts passed by the Upper Canada 
Legislature. It consisted of two volumes : Vol. L, the 
public acts from 1792 to 1840; Vol. II., the local and 
private acts from 1822 to 1839. 



In 1794 an advertisement appeared in the Upper Canada 
Gazette announcing the publication of an almanac for 1795. 
^No copy is known. 

It is a question if it ever appeared. The fact is suggested 
by the publication of the following advertisement in the 
same paper, Vol. III., Kb. 6. 30th Xovember, 1796 : 
" Xow preparing, and in a few days will be committed to 

B 



18 

the press, 'The Upper Canada Calendar for the year 1797, 
being a Pocket Almanack, containing, besides astronomical 
calculations, lists of the Legislative, Executive and Military 
Officers, times and places of holding Courts, etc. Being the 
fint work of the kind ev j r attempted in this province, (sic.) 
The publisher most respectfully solicits the assistance of 
every gentleman who possesses the means of promoting the 
design, by furnishing him with articles properly arranged 
(and) such particulars as may be in their power." 

No copy of this almanac has come down to us, and the 
number of years it was continued is, likewise, a matter of 
uncertainty. 

It is a curious fact, considering the small population of 
Upper Canada at that time, that there should have been rival 
almanacs for the year 1802. One was published at Niagara, 
by Tiffany, one at York, by Bennett. The former is thus 
advertised, in its way a curiosity : — 

"Tiffany's Upper Canada Almanack for the year 1802, 
and from the creation, according to the Scriptures, 5764. 
Being the sixth after bissextile, or leap year, calculated for 
the meridian of Niagara, etc. Niagara : Published by 
Sylvester Tiffany, and sold by him at the Herald office, by 
the merchants in town, also at York, Kingston, Detroit, 
Queenstown, Chippewa, and Fort Erie. Said Tiffany 
publishes every Saturday a newspaper entitled the Herald. 
Subscriptions are received for it in all the principal towns of 
the province." 

Two copies of this publication have been preserved, one in 
the possession of Mr. Gagnon, of Quebec, one belonging to 
Mr. Bain. 

This almanac furnishes the names of the officials, with a 
list of the Sessions of the Law Courts. We may there 
read some somewhat tame anecdotes with several receipts, 



19 

such as how to preserve fruit, to pickle cabbage, to make 
currant wine, etc. Its cheval de bataille, however, was, that 
it was a weather almanac, and offered, in the most approved 
fashion, the advice weather-prophets give in modern times : 
"clear and pleasant," "now look out for a storm," "snow," 
"a few days of blustering weather, look well to your cattle," 
"fine growing weather," "lookout for a long wet season," 
" thunder and rain," and so on. The writer, however, does 
not plead infallibility, and asks for forgiveness if the informa- 
tion prove " erroneous," and that " careful observers " will 
" throw over the error the excess of that charity of which 
their generous souls are composed." 

There is another effort on the part of the compiler ; he 
undertakes to warn his readers against the diseases incident 
to humanity, by the passage of the moon in the heavens. To 
this day we find on the covers of many advertising almanacs 
of quack medicines, the figure of a man erect, the different 
parts of whose body are referred to the signs of the Zodiac. 
A belief in astrology continues to identify the moon's path 
as threatening humanity with diseases in certain directions ; 
thus, when the moon is in Aries there is always danger of 
convulsions, bad eyes, weak knees, etc.* In the almanac 

* Diseases of the Moox. 

Moon in Aries signifies convulsions, defhixions of rheum from the 
head, lethargy, weakness in the eyes and pains in the knees. 

Moon in Taurus produces pains in the legs and feet, swellings, 
stoppage, sore throat, etc. 

Moon in Gemini denotes a wandering gout in the legs, arms, 
hands and feet ; surfeits and great obstructions. 

Moon in Cancer shews the stomach much afflicted, a surfeit, 
small-pox, convulsions, falling sickness, tympany, or dropsy. 

Moon in Leo, the heart afflicted, sore throat, quinsy, king's evil, etc. 

Moon in Virgo signifies great pain and disorders in the bowels, 
melancholy blood, obstructions, weakness in the arms and shoulders. 



20 

the passage of the moon is not set forth by the signs of the 
Zodiac, but by the parts of the human frame liable to suffer 
at certain periods from lunar influence. The use of this 
phraseology conveys the opinion that belief in astrology then 
prevailed, and that the language was fitted for a market 
ready to accept it. 

I am sorry to say that I have been unable to obtain 
reference to the Upper Canada Almanac of 1802, of 
Bennett, the Government Printer, at York [Toronto]. A 
copy, however, is known to be in existence. 

In 1823 Mr. Fothergill commenced the publication of a 
York Almanac and Eoyal Calendar of Upper Canada, 12mo (> 
160 pp., which was continued during 1824, 1825, 1826, 
increasing its size to 196pp., containing likewise an addi- 
tional 100pp. of chronological detail, independently num- 
bered, suggesting that it was a distinct publication and sold 
separately. 

I have alluded (Archaeology, p. 77) to Mr. Fothergill's 

Moon in Libra denotes the reins are distempered, obstructions in 
the stomach, weakness in the back, whites in women, surfeits > 
pleurisy, etc. 

Moon in Scorpio shews the distemper is in the secrets, small-pox,, 
dropsy, poison, the heart afflicted, swoonings, etc. 

Moon in Sagittarius imports lameness or weakness in the thighs,, 
distempers in the bowels, etc. 

Moon in Capricorn signifies the stone, weak back, gout in the 
knees, whites in women, etc. 

Moon in Aquarius signifies hysterics, swellings and pains in the 
legs and secret parts. 

Moon in Pisces shews cold taken in the feet and body disordered 
thereby ; swellings in the legs, dropsies, and the body overcharged 
with moist humours. 

[Grammar of Astrology, containing all things necessary calculat- 
ing a nativity * * * by Zadkiel. Dedicated to the University 
of Cambridge! London, 1849 [pp. 177-8.] 



21 

dismissal from his position as Queen's Printer in 1825 by 
Sir Peregrine Maitland. As a member of the House, Mr. 
Fothergill had claimed that information concerning the post- 
office revenue should be submitted. He had otherwise 
shewn some liberal views, a proceeding on his part which 
suggested to the authorities he was an unfit person to hold 
any public office. 

The almanac of Mr. Lyon Mackenzie first appeared in 
1830. No. II. remains preserved ; its title is " Poor 
Kicharcl, or the Yorkshire Almanack for the Year of our 
Lord 1831." By Patrick Swift, York. Printed at the office 
of the Colonial Advocate by William Lyon Mackenzie ; pp. 
16, 8vo. 

There is no precise knowledge of the number of almanacs 
published by Mr. Lyon Mackenzie. By general consent 1834 
is considered to be the latest date : on this theory five were 
issued [1830-1834]. I have been unable to refer to the 
copy mentioned by me. 



I have given in the volume of 1886 the history of the 
establishment of the Archive office. The collection of 
original documents, since this date, has been continued with 
regularity and with remarkable energy. In the twenty 
years which have elapsed since its foundation, the issue of 
the annual reports has been uninterrupted. They contain 
the authenticated narrative of events which, it may safely 
be said, will much modify, and in many cases, will entirely 
change the published opinions that have hitherto passed 



99 



for history. Nowhere are these reports more sought for 
than in the United States. There is not a library, or an 
historical society worthy the name in the republic, which 
does not possess them. There is no historical writer of 
reputation who hesitates to accept them as authority. Dr. 
Brymner's industry has been remarkable, and it is best 
known to those who have been busied in these investiga- 
tions. The sustained power apparent in these reports year 
after year has added to the reputation of the province with 
those who believe that there is something higher in life than 
material success and mere temporary political notoriety. 

The first report appeared in 1872 by Dr. Brymner. 
" second " " " 1873 " 

" third " " " 1874 by Abbe Verreault. 

The Abbe at this date was deputed to make examinations, 
in the first place in London, afterwards at Lille, Liege and 
Metz, finally at Paris. The three above named reports are 
included in the general reports of the Minister of Agriculture 
and must there be sought for. 

The succeeding five years were passed in classifying, 
arranging and calendaring to some extent the records and 
documents which form the wealth of the department, and 
generally in systematizing for reference the books and papers. 
I must refer my reader to the description of the department 
made by me in my previous volume. The series of inde- 
pendent reports commenced in 1881. The first of this issue 
was confined to a specification of what had then been 
obtained and methodized. In 1882 some returns of 1791 
were published concerning shipping and exports and imports. 
In 1883 the publication of original documents was com- 
menced. In 1884 the calendar of the Haldimand collection 
first appeared, which papers, including the Bouquet papers 
and the Haldimand diary, were continued until 1889, 



23 

inclusive. This calendar, which is unusually full, alone fills 
three large volumes. During the last two years the calendar 
of the State papers since the conquest, affecting British 
Canada, has been commenced ; those of Upper Canada 
having been begun in the report of 1891. 

Even so far as these publications extend, they furnish 
several important volumes of acknowledged value. 

There can be little doubt with regard to the benefit con- 
ferred on the study of the history of the continent by the 
establishment of the archive branch. If truth is to be the 
guiding principle in any narrative, access to the documentary 
evidence affecting it is indispensable. Until the carefully- 
made transcripts of the imperial record office were open to 
investigation in Ottawa, they might be regarded as so many 
sealed volumes ; such was the difficulty of obtaining access to 
them. The fact may be recognized in the number of 
investigators from the United States, who have patiently 
examined these papers, with a view of penetrating to the 
sources of events bearing upon the different periods they 
were studying. A multiplied amount of data can be found 
referring to the northern states of the Union, extending 
from the seaboard to the Mississippi. The consequence has 
been that the office has in the United States acquired a 
good name for its value and usefulness, which forms the 
highest tribute to the wisdom of its establishment. 

The several MS. volumes of transcripts from imperial 
documents may be briefly described. 

The Bouquet papers of 34 volumes. Bouquet's services 
in the Indian Avars of 1763 are now commencing to be better 
known and appreciated. 

The Haldimand papers of 232 volumes. Haldimand was 
governor of Canada from 1778 to 1784; a born collector, 



24 

lie has retained for us much information which other- 
wise would entirely have passed away. 

Many volumes of State papers [1755-1760] including the 
military correspondence. 

The State papers bearing upon the new Province of 
Canada continued to the Canada Act in 1791. After that 
date there is a division between those of Upper and Lower 
Canada; accordingly, they form two distinct series, and are in 
process of being so calendared. According to the report of 
1891, those of Lower Canada have been calendared to 1800; 
those of Upper Canada to 1801. 

Many volumes of military correspondence are open to 
reference. They were originally collected in Canada with 
the design of being transmitted to the Home War Office. 
They have, however, been permitted to be retained in 
Canada. This important collection, which covers a period of 
nearly ninety years, consists of a large number of volumes. 
All are indexed, so reference to any subject can be imme- 
diate. 

In addition to the above described MS. volumes, a staff of 
copyists is at present engaged in Paris making selected 
extracts from the records, commencing from the middle of 
the seventeenth century : several volumes of these excerpts 
have been received. 

There is a series consisting of several volumes of warrants, 
shewing the amounts paid to officials and others, with the 
vouchers of the various payments made by the Lake-Marine 
and other departments from 1784 to about 1811. 

Independently of this official correspondence, the branch 
possesses an extensive collection of family papers, in several 
instances of those who in their lives were persons of promi- 
nence, containing important official and private correspond- 
ence. These letters throw much light on contemporary 



events, and often explain the secret working of much., 
otherwise difficult to be understood. They are of great value 
to the writer of history, and cannot fail to be consulted by 
every student. They are perfectly arranged, so that they 
are in every respect accessible, and are thus of essential 
service to any one investigating the period to which they 
relate. 

In connection with these MS. volumes, there is a large 
collection of printed books bearing upon the history of the 
dominion. They consist of the official volumes issued by 
the mother country and the several states of the Union. 
The history of Canada, and of all the Xorthern States to 
the Mississippi, is so much interwoven as on many points to 
be almost one and the same ; consequently, the documents 
enumerated by me are of equally recognized importance 
without the province. Access can also be had to the 
collection of published volumes which appeared at the time, 
or immediately after the events narrated. It is true that 
they are not all gospel : many are the production of passionate 
sentiment in one or the other direction ; many are stamped 
by what Jean Baptiste Biot* called that " geographical 
selfishness, patriotism"; many uncertain in their information; 
many hard reading. 

But with all their faults no historical library can be held 
to be complete without them. It is of great importance 
that these volumes should be accessible at the time when 
the MSS. are being consulted. Possible reference to them 
by the skilled investigator, engaged in the stud}' of the 
original calendared documents, is of immense value. They 
go very far to aid what should be the first duty of every 

* The eminent French natural philosopher, whose researches as 
to the polarization of light in 1840 gained for him the Rumford 
medal of the Royal Society. 



26 

man in his private life equally with his duty as a public 
writer ■ the establishment of truth. 

Dr. Brymner has paid particular attention to the collection 
of pamphlets,* the collection consisting of very many volumes 
of considerable value. 

I do not think it an exaggeration when I add that the 
establishment of the Canadian Archive office in Ottawa has 
given a strong impetus to historical studies throughout the 
whole continent, extending to the gulf of Mexico and west 
of the Mississippi. Historical societies not previously exist- 
ent have been established, and those which were hitherto 
the most active have received an increased impulse to their 
usefulness. There is one point on which I may dwell : the 
perfect fidelity with which all the original documents of the 
Canadian Archive office are transcribed, and the strict 
adherence to the text. On the other hand, contemporary 
printed books, however adverse to the good name of Canada 

* The despised pamphlet has of late years risen somewhat in 
estimation. Everyone who has commercially had the misfortune 
to publish a pamphlet knows by experience that they never sell : 
they prove an invariable loss to the writer. But they have this 
advantage, they relate an event in its true character ; and however 
painful of remembrance to the contemptible perpetrator of a 
wrong, it is a record out of which, whatever his cunning and false- 
hood, he cannot writhe or wriggle. The State Historical Society 
of Wisconsin, which has collected 150,000 volumes, in a late appeal 
for continued aid, thus remarks on the importance of contributing 
pamphlets of every kind :— " Ephemeral in form of publication and 
commonly thought not worthy of preservation, pamphlets are often 
difficult to collect a short time after issue. They reflect the spirit 
and sentiments of the age, however, better than elaborate treatises 
and are indispensable treasures in a good reference library, where 
historians, biographers, statisticians and men of letters in general, 
naturally look for everything, no matter how apparently trivial, 
that may shed light on the subjects of their investigation/'' 



27 

and its institutions, are kept for reference, to shew the 
difference of view in that, and other respects. 

I will venture to sjDeak of a requirement, generally admitted : 
the necessity of a proper fire-proof building where these 
costly documents should be preserved, and, at the same time, 
the requirements of historical students be considered. Many 
of these gentlemen come from the United States. Any 
national pride we may feel in the fact that the Archives are 
sought for reference by the public writers of the republic, is 
certainly not heightened by seeing them engaged in the small 
and not too convenient room where their labours have to be 
conducted, and where, when more than three or four are 
gathered together, one is reminded of the narrative of 
the pursuit of knowledge under difficulties. Perhaps some 
day we may again meet in the executive a reawakening 
of the feeling that led to the establishment of the institu- 
tion, and which may dictate the construction of a 
proper building, efficiently adapted to its uses in all respects. 

For the present, however, we can only say with Cicero, 
"speremus quce volumus" ; adding what his philosophy also 
teaches us, " sed quce acciderint feramus" * 

The first printed pamphlet in Ontario, so far as is known, 
appeared during the war of 1812-14. 

1. [1814]. "A Form of Prayer and Thanksgiving to 
Almighty God to be used on Friday, the Third Day of 
June, 1814, being the day appointed by Proclamation for a 
General Thanksgiving to Almighty God, To acknowledge 
the great Goodness and Mercy of Almighty God, who in 
addition to the manifold and inestimable Benefits which we 
have received at His Hands has continued to us His Pro- 



* Let us hope for that which we desire, but let us bear what falls 
to our lot. 



28 

tection and Assistance in the War in which we are now 
engaged, and has given to the Arms of His Majesty and to 
those of His Allies a Series of Signal and Glorious Victories 
over the Forces of the Enemy." Kingston. Printed by 
Stephen Miles ; pp. 14., 12o. 1814. 

One of the earliest books printed in the province of 
Ontario is a pamphlet known by an advertisement in the 
Quebec Gazette of the 12th of November, 1818. It is 
believed that no copy of it can be found. The author was 
Eobert Gourlay, to whose unfortunate career I have alluded in 
"Canadian Archaeology" [pp. 84-85]. The treatment which 
Gourlay received is a painful passage in Upper Canadian 
history. 

2. [1818]. For sale at this office, price Is. "Principles 
and proceedings of the inhabitants of the District of Niagara 
for addressing His Eoyal Highness the Prince Kegent, 
respecting claims of sufferers in the late War, Lands to 
Militia men, and the general benefit of Upper Canada. 
Printed at the Niagara Spectator Office, 1818." 

3. [1818]. " Proceedings at a meeting of the inhabitants 
of the Townships of Hope and Hamilton, in the district of 
Newcastle, U.C., held agreeable to notice from Robert 
Gourlay." York, U.C. Printed by R. C. Home. 1818. 

A copy of this extremely rare work is in the Toronto 
Library \ from what I learn, it may be considered to be 
unique. 

The following books were published at the dates named : — 

4. [1822]. "An | Address | to the | liege men | of 
every | British Colony | and | province | in the world | by 
a friend to his species. Kingston : | Printed at the Herald 
Office, | 1822." 12mo. 

This pamphlet is in verse, and consists of 13pp. It is in 
the possession of Mr. Gagnon. 



29 

Mr. Edward Allen Talbot, in his work, " Five years 
residence in Canada," London, 1824, Vol. II., p. 192, makes 
mention of the following work. I cannot learn that a copy 
has been preserved : it, however, forms the second part of 
the almanac for 1822. 

5. [1822]. "A Sketch of the present state of Canada. 
York, Upper Canada, 1822." By Mr. Fothergill. 

I have previously alluded to this gentleman's removal, in 
1825, from the office of Queen's printer, which he held. 

6. [1822]. " Sermon and Catechism for Children." 
York. Printed by J. Carey, 1822 ; pp. 16., 12mo. 

7. [1823]. "Constitution of the Antient Fraternity of 
Free and Accepted Masons. Part the second, containing 
the charges, regulations, etc. Published by the authority of 
the United Grand Lodge, by William Williams, Esq. First 
Canadian edition. Kepublished by order of the Provincial 
Grand Lodge of Upper Canada. Kingston, 1823." 8vo. 
96pp. 

This title is taken from the catalogue of Haight & Co., 
No. 1, 1890. 

8. "St. Ursula's Convent, or the Nun of Canada, con- 
taining scenes of Real Life, Kingston, L T pper Canada, 1824." 
I cannot learn that a copy is in existence. The book is 
known by allusion to it in the Canadian Review and Literary 
and Historical Journal, in which it is reviewed at some 
length in the first number in July, 1824, and it is by no 
means favourably noticed. 

This Canadian Review was edited by Dr. A. J. Christie, 
grandfather of Mr. A. J. Christie, Q.C., Ottawa, He came 
to this country in 1818, one of three sons of the non-juror 
Episcopal rector of the parish of Woodhead, near Fyvie, 
Aberdeenshire. He was for some time editor of the 
Montreal Gazette and Herald, following the medical profes- 



30 

sion at the same time. His son, Mr. Thomas A. Christie, 
started the Bytown Gazette in 1836. The Canadian Revieiv 
was brought out irregularly in 1824 and 1826. Of the five 
numbers I have seen, the first three were printed at the 
office of the Montreal Herald, the last two at the office of 
the Montreal Gazette. All the articles are characterized by 
literary power, as the work of well educated and able men. 
The tone of them is admirable. 

The above volume was advertised for sale in Cary's catalogue 

of 1830; it is therefore possible that a copy may yet be 

preserved. It has been stated that the " authoress was a 

Miss Julia Beckwith, afterwards Mrs. Hart, of Fredericton, 

• New Brunswick." [Canadiana, Yol. II., p. 36.] 

9. [1825]. "Wonders of the West, or, A Day at the 
Palls of Niagara, in 1825;" a poem by a Canadian, 1825. 
C. Fothergill, Printer, York (Toronto), 46pp., 12mo. 

This book is in Mr. Gagnon's possession. 

The author was Mr. J. L. Alexander, teacher in the York 
Grammar School; afterwards incumbent of Saltfleet and 
Binbrook. 

10. [1825]. "Speech in Committee on the bill for con- 
ferring civil rights on certain inhabitants of this province." 

On reverse of the blue j)aper cover "December 5th, 
1825." "The house having resolved itself into a committee 
upon the bill," etc. 

No place or date is given. There is internal evidence that 
Mr., afterwards Sir John Beverley Robinson, then Attorney 
General, was the speaker. 

This brochure of 56 pp., is in the collection of Mr. 
Gagnon. 

11. [1826]. " An abridged view of the Alien Question 
unmasked." By the Editor of the Canadian Freeman. 
York, U.C., 1826. pp. 16. 



31 

The author, Francis Collins, in 1823, was tried for libel 
on the Attorney-General, afterwards Sir J. B. Robinson. 
He was sentenced to a fine of £50, imprisonment for one 
year, and to find security for future good behaviour. 

12. [1826]. " The Wandering Rhymer, a fragment with 
other poetical trifles." York. Printed at the U. C. Gazette 
office, 1826 : pp. 22, 8vo. 

13. [1827]. "The Xaturalization Bill, as passed by the 
House of Assembly and Legislative Council, and reserved for 
His Majesty's assent. Third Session, ninth Provincial Parlia- 
ment. Also, the Address of Messrs. Jonas and Charles Jones 
to the inhabitants of the district of Johnstown and the 
remarks of c an Anglo-American Freeholder' thereon." 

Printed at the Herald office, 1827. 13pp. 

14. [1827]. "The History of the Destruction of the 
Colonial Advocate Press by officers of the Provincial Govern- 
ment of Upper Canada, and Law Students of the Attorney & 
Solicitor-General in open day, and in j)resence of the Honour- 
able William Allan, a Police Magistrate and collector of the 
Customs, and Stephen Heward, Esquire, Auditor-General of 
the colony, by William L. Mackenzie, Editor and proprietor." 
Part II., York. Printed at the Colonial Advocate office, by 
W. L. Mackenzie, printer to the Honourable the House of 
Assembly of Upper Canada, 1827. 24pp. 

15. [1827]. "A sermon preached at Kingston, Tapper 
Canada, on Sunday, the 25th Day of Xovember, 1827, on 
occasion of divine service at the opening of St. George's 
Church, by the Venerable George Okill Stuart, A.M., LL.D., 
Archdeacon of Kingston, and Missionary of the Society for 
Propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts." Published by 
request. Kingston. Printed by Hugh C. Thompson, 1827. 
16pp. 8vo. 

In the collection of the late Sheriff Chauveau. 



32 

16. [1827]. "A series of reflections on the manage- 
ment of Civic Kule in the town of Kingston, Upper 
Canada. By an Inhabitant." Kingston. Printed by Hugh 
C. Thomson, 1827 ; pp., 60., 12mo. 

17. [1827]. "Keport of the Home District Committee 
of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, For 
the year 1827." York, U.C. Printed by K. Stanton ; pp. 
10, 8vo. 

18. [1827]. "Statement of the affairs of the late 
Pretended Bank of Upper Canada at Kingston, containing 
reports of the Commissioners appointed by several Acts of 
the Provincial Parliament to settle the affairs of the said 
institution, together with certain other accompanying docu- 
ments referred to in the report, being Lists of the Stock- 
Holders, Creditors, Debtors, &c, &c, &c. Reprinted by 
order of the House of Assembly." York. Printed by 
William Lyon Mackenzie, at the office of the Colonial 
Advocate; pp. 48, 8vo. 

19. [1828]. " Statement of facts relating to the trespass 
on the printing press in the possession of Mr. William Lyon 
M'Kenzie, in June, 1826, addressed to the public generally 
and particularly to the subscribers and supporters of the 
Colonial Advocate, York." Printed by R. Stanton. 32pp. 

The author of this work was Mr. S. P. Jarvis ; it 
appeared in 1828. 

20. [1828.] "The Legislative Black List of Upper 
Canada, or Official Corruption and Hypocrisy unmasked." 
York, 1828. 40pp. 

Mr. Lindsey, in his " Life of Mackenzie," thus describes 
this volume: "His ' Legislative Black List/ early commenced 
and assiduously kept up, contained a short commentary on 
the divisions that had taken place during the two previous 
Provincial Parliaments, on prominent and important ques- 



33 

tions. * * * Compared with electioneering documents of 
the present day whether in Canada or the States, the 
' Black List' was mild and moderate. In publishing Mr. 
Small's election address, he simply appended to it within 
brackets ' Printed at the Government Office.' " [I., p. 146.] 

21. [1828.] " Letter from the Reverend Egerton Ryerson 
to the Hon. and Reverend doctor Strachan," published 
originally in the Uj)per Canada Herald, Kingston, L T . C. 
Printed at the Herald Office, 1828. Small 4to. 42pp. 

22. [1828.] "Religious Discourses, by the author of 
TTaverley." Kingston, U. C. Printed and published by- 
James Macfarlane, 1828. 16pp., 8vo. 

In the collection of the late Sheriff Chauveau. 

23. [1828]. " Claims of the Churchmen and Dissenters' 
of L^pper Canada brought to the test; in a controversy 
between several members of the Church of England and a 
Methodist preacher." 

Kingston, U. C. Printed at the Herald Office, 1828. 
232pp. 8vo. 

In the collection of Mr. Gagnon. 

24. [1828.] A pamphlet of 1 1pp. folio, without title, " a 
letter of Mr. John B. Robinson, Attorney General, to George 
Hillier, Secretary to the Lieutenant-Governor." York, June 
17th, 1828. 

Printed at the Upper Canada Gazette Office. 

The pamphlet is an answer to the statement made in 
court by Mr. Justice Willis, the first day of term. 

This is no place to enter into the now forgotten dispute 
between Mr. Justice Willis and the Government. At the 
time, from the excited state of political feeling, the suspen- 
sion of Mr. Justice AVillis by Sir Peregrine Maitland was 
made a party question, and is so considered to this day. 



34 

Those who desire a temperate, fair and able narrative of this 
complicated question, may be referred to Mr. Bead's " Lives 
of the Justices" [pp. 108-117]. What must strike the 
reader of modern times is the rapidity with which events 
moved. Mr. Willis presented to the lieutenant-governor, 
Sir Peregrine Maitland, the royal warrant by which he was 
appointed judge of the King's Bench, on the 18th of Sep- 
tember, 1827. On the 26th of June, 1828, he was removed 
from his office, the warrant being signed by the lieutenant- 
governor and the attorney-general. The cause of his 
removal was his refusal to sit with Mr. Justice Sherwood, 
without a third judge, on the ground that the court so 
constituted was illegal. Leave of absence had been granted 
by the lieutenant-governor to Chief-Justice Campbell, so 
two judges were only present, when the act set forth that 
three should hold the court. There had previously been a 
difference of view, somewhat sharply expressed, between the 
Justice Willis and the Attorney-General Eobinson, as to the 
manner in which the latter had performed his duty as 
attorney-general. 

The dispute was carried before the privy council. The 
decision pronounced was, that Mr. Willis had erred in his 
construction of the statute, and that, notwithstanding the 
absence of the chief-justice, he should have held the court 
with Mr. Justice Sherwood. On the other hand, it was 
held that his dismissal was too summary, and, hence, un- 
warrantable ; that charges should have been formulated 
against him, so that he might have had the right of reply, 
and of setting forth the principle on which he had acted. 

According to Mr. Kead, the antagonism was early created 
between Mr. Justice Willis and the Attorney-General. 
The former desired to establish a court of equity, which the 



35 

latter constantly opposed. * It is probable that no little of 
the friction arose from this circumstance. 

25. [1828]. "The formation and constitution of the 
York U. C. Bible Society, with the first address of its 
members to their Christian friends." York. Printed by 
W. L. Mackenzie, at the office of the Colonial Advocate, 
1828; pp. 26, 12mo. 

26. [1828]. "Directions to those who raise Tobacco in 
this Province." York. Printed by AY. L. MacKenzie, at 
the office of the Colonial Advocate, 1828 ; pp. 16, 12mo. 

27. [1.828]. " The Charter of the University of King's 
College at York, in Upper Canada." Kingston, U.C., 1828. 
Keprinted by H. C. Thompson; pp. 14, 12mo. 

28. [1828]. "The Address to Protestant Dissenters, 
suited to the present times." Kingston, U.C. Printed 
and published (for the author) by H. C. Thompson, and 
sold by most Booksellers in the province, 1828; pp. 52, 12mo. 

29. [1828]. "Manual of Parliamentary Practice, with 
an Appendix containing the Eules of the Legislative Coun- 
cil and House of Assembly of Upper Canada." Compiled, 
printed and published by H. C. Thompson, 1828 ; pp. 92, 
8vo. 

30. [1829.] "The Lower Canada Watchman, Pro 
Patria," Kingston, U.C, 1829, 18mo., James Macfarlane, 
Printer. 

It is formed from the newspaper type of a series of letters 
originally published in the Kingston Chronicle. It is not 
scarce. There is a copy in the excellent library of the well- 

* It may be proper to mention, that in less than nine years from 
this date the court of chancery was established [4 March, 1837]. 
the first vice-chancellor being Mr. Jameson. Introducing the 
fact, Mr. Read remarks, "The want of a Court of Equity in this 
Province had begun to be seriously felt." [p. 193.] 



36 

known Abbe Verreault, of Montreal ; a copy in the Public 
Library, Toronto, likewise one in the Parliamentary Library ; 
Mr. Gagnon also has a copy. The type used in the columns 
of the paper makes up the book. These letters bear the 
signature T. L. C. W. A second edition contains some 
supplemental matter. Mr. Bain's copy in the Toronto 
library has letters 11 and 12, not in the Verreault copy. 

The authorship is attributed to Mr. David Chisholme, who 
arrived in Canada in 1822. Lord Dalhousie was then 
governor-general, having held the position from the June 
of the previous year. Chisholme strongly supported the 
policy of lord Dalhousie, and obtained his confidence. It 
was the latter who appointed Chisholme clerk of the peace 
at Three Kivers. Lord Dalhousie remained in Canada until 
1828. During the administration of lord Gosford, in 
November, 1836, Chisholme was dismissed from his office, 
owing to the hostility felt towards him by the dominant 
party from his openly expressed opinions. Such as desire 
to learn the views of the party opposed to the policy of 
lord Gosford, will find it clearly defined, and with little 
circumspection of phrase, in the once well-known " Anti- 
Gallic letters," written in 1835 and 1836 by Adam Thorn. 

31. [1829.] " Six sermons on the Liturgy of the Church 
of England." York, U.C., 1829. 16pp. 

At this period the writer was the incumbent of Grimsby, 
the Eev. A. U. Bethune : afterwards bishop of Toronto. 
[Nov., 1867; Feb., 1879.] 

32. [1830.] " A Eeport of the Case of Sheldon Hawley 
v. George Hand, Kingston, 1826." A now forgotten law 
case. 

33. [1830.] " Kesponsible or Parliamentary Govern- 
ment : A political pamphlet." Toronto: 1st ed., 1830; 2nd 
ed., 1839. 8vo. 



37 

The author, Mr. Ogle R. Gowan, an Irishman arrived in 
Canada in 1829. He was elected to the legislature in 1834, 
and remained a member of the Parliament of Upper Canada 
and of the Province of Canada until 1861. 

Thus, previous to the work mentioned in " Canadian 
Archaeology" as the first printed book in Upper Canada, those 
above enumerated preceded it. I repeat the title in this 
place to make the present list complete. 

34. [1832.] " History of the late War between Great 
Britain and the United States of America, with a retrospective 
view of the causes from which it originated, collected from the 
most authentic sources ; to which is added an appendix 
containing public documents, etc., relating to the subject." 
By David Thompson, late of the Royal Scots, Xiagara, U.C. 
Printed by T. Sewell, Printer, Bookbinder, and Stationer, 
Market Square, 1832. 300pp. 12mo. 

35. [1833.] "The | Constitution | of the ( Canadas | 
adopted by the imperial parliament in the | thirty-first year 
of the reign of his | Majesty George the III. | and | in the 
year of our Lord one thousand seven | hundred and ninety- 
one | Together with the debates thereon | Printed by Joseph 
Wilson | Hallowell U.C, 1833, pp. 125, 12mo." 

Hallo well was the name formerly given to the present 
town of Picton. According to the account we read in 
Belden's Historical Atlas, it was the original name west of 
the bridge. East of the bridge, only, was called Picton, after 
the distinguished general who fell at ^Waterloo. Opinion 
was divided which name should be retained. Finally, it is 
said against the feeling of the majority, the selection of 
Picton was made, and the town was so incorporated about 
1847. The township of Hallowell was the centre of an 
United Empire settlement. 

36. [1837]. "Observations upon Emigration to Upper 



38 

Canada, being the prize essay for which was awarded a gold 
medal from the Upper Canada Celtic Society." By Joseph 
Neilson. Kingston : Printed at the office of the Chronicle 
and Gazette, 1837. 74pp., 8vo. 

The essay describes the different districts of Upper Canada, 
and concludes with a few words of advice to the emigrant. 

37. [1840.] "Notes upon Canada and the United States, 
from 1832 to 1840, much in a small space, or a great deal in 
a little book." By A Traveller. Second Edition. Toronto 
(late York), Upper Canada. Printed -by Eogers and 
Thompson, Commercial Herald office, 1840. 184pp. 12mo. 

This work is an extraordinary medley of disconnected notes 
of matters succeeding each other without any relation. 
They bear the mark of being written upon first impression 
and without exact inquiry, consequently many are of doubt- 
ful accuracy. The book, in its way, is a literary curiosity. 
Many facts regarding the province are to be found in this 
volume which are not elsewhere preserved. Without 
suggesting the least want of good faith or honesty *of 
purpose on the part of the writer of them, it is difficult to 
resist the impression that they must be taken with the 
traditional grano salis. The author was Mr. Henry Cook 
Todd, father of Dr. Alpheus Todd, many years the parlia- 
mentary librarian, whose own work I have shortly to record. 
He passed through Oxford University, where he acquired 
some learning and the taste for collecting books. Possessed 
originally of some means, he unfortunately lost much of them 
in speculation, and he supplemented the income remaining to 
him by aiding in the collection of libraries, and in "coaching" 
undergraduates. He came to Canada in 1832 and died in 
1862. He was accomplished in many respects, being an 
excellent artist. His grandchildren still possess many 
of his sketches and pen-and-ink drawings, of great merit. 



39 

He was author of the two following works, independently 
of the one above named : — 

(1). "Manual of Orthoepy, on a new plan to render a 
right pronunciation of words attainable at first sight ; with 
over 2,000 curious notes," 1801. 12mo. London. 

(2). "Items (in Life of an Usher) on travel, anecdote, 
and popular errors," by one in Retirement. 8vo. Quebec. 
1855. 

38. [1840.] Alpheus Todd, LL.D. "The Practice and 
Privileges of the Two Houses of Parliament : with an 
Appendix of Forms." ' Printed by order of the House of 
Assembly. 1 vol., 8vo. Toronto, 1840. 

Dr. Todd at a later period of his life produced the two 
important works with which his name is identified, viz. : — 

" On Parliamentary Government in England : its origin, 
development and practical operation." 2 vols., 8vo. London, 
1867-9. 

2nd Ed., 2 vols., 8vo. London, 1887-9. 

"Parliamentary Government in the British Colonies." 
1 vol., 8vo. Boston, 1880. 2nd Edition in press. 

He has to be specially mentioned as at this date producing 
a book which has brought honour upon his country. I have, 
however, appended the two volumes subsequently published, 
founded upon his first work. Dr. Todd, son of Henry Cook 
Todd, was born in London, 30th July, 1821, and died in 
Ottawa, 22nd January, 1884. He was but nineteen years 
of age when his first book was written, "Practice and 
Privileges of the Two Houses of Parliament," a remarkable 
work for so young a man. 

The circumstances under which this volume appeared 
require to be clearly stated It must be distinctly remembered 
that Dr. Todd was the forerunner in modern times in treating 
of parliamentary practice. His book was published four years 



40 

before that of Sir Erskine May. Until this time the 
standard authority was HatselTs " Precedents of Proceedings 
in the House of Commons : with observations." 4 vols. 
The first edition appeared in 1781, the last in 1818, with 
some additions by Abbot, Lord Colchester, who had been 
fifteen years Speaker of the House of Commons. Hatsell 
himself had been Clerk of the House, from which office he 
retired in 1797. He died in 1820. 

Dr. Todd's second, and indeed his chief book, has obtained 
for him a European reputation. It has been translated into 
German and Italian, and is held in the highest esteem in the 
mother country, which Todd doubtless considered as the 
greatest honour he could obtain. His third book, on " Par- 
liamentary Government in the Colonies," has gained equally 
favourable consideration both at home and in the Dominion. 
It is the text-book of the Toronto University. 

Those imperial writers, constantly ready to recognize the 
most ephemeral productions of the United States, as of 
astounding merit, and who pass by with cold mention, more 
often in silence, any effort of the provincial intellect, will do 
well to remember that the first authoritative book on parlia- 
mentary law was produced in Canada in 1840, four years 
before any modern English writer had approached the 
subject. There are, fortunately, writers in the London press 
of a different stamp, who kindly and generously recognize 
what they conceive to be merit, whatever the latitude and 
longitude at which it is displayed. Unfortunately, such as 
these are not frequently met. Those not in the category 
would do well to read the records of the American revolution 
of a century back. The real grievance was not the Stamp 
Act, and all the misrepresentation which has been written 
about the tyranny of the home government. It was the 
misapprehension and the failure to do justice to the colonial 



41 

intellect which estranged men like Jefferson, Samuel Adams, 
and Madison, who learned from personal sentiment to enter- 
tain an unextinguishable hatred to England. What was the 
experience in the two cases I am considering ? Sir Erskine 
May received many honours, and deservedly so, dying as 
Lord Farnborough in 1886. Dr. Todd remained unnoticed 
for years by the London journalist and the home govern- 
ment. The consideration which he received late in life, the 
degree of LL.D., honoris causa, was conferred by Queen's 
University. Owing to the intervention of Lord Lome, 
himself a man of letters, always foremost in the recognition 
of merit, and who has left behind him in Canada the record 
of his constant sympathy with art and literature in connection 
with his high statesmanlike abilities, Dr. Todd received 
the imperial distinction of a CM. G. It is, moreover, 
well known that in the Dominion, his honest expression of 
opinion regarding the Letellier question in the province of 
Quebec, an opinion which remains unimpeachable, led to 
an expression of petulant bad feeling on the part of men in 
power in Canada, which one' day will be more fully related. 
It was the reward he received from the Canadian Govern- 
ment. 

Some reprints of known works were early published, viz. : — 

1. [1823]. "The True-Born Englishman; a Political 
Satyr " [sic]. By Daniel DeFoe. Beprinted from the old 
edition, 1823 ; pp. 32, 12mo. 

2. [1823]. "The Canadian's Bight, the same as the 
Englishman's. — A Dialogue between a Barrister-at-Law and 
a Juryman, setting forth the Antiquity, excellent design, 
use, office and just privileges of Juries, By the Law of 
England. First written by Sir John Hawles, Knight, Soli- 
citor-General to William III." York, U.C. Xow repub- 
lished by Charles Fothergill, Esq., 1823; pp. 52, 12mo. 



42 

3. [1831.] "The Life and Actions of Alexander the 
Great," by the Kev. J. Williams, Yicar of Lampeter. First 
Canada edition, Niagara, 1831. 200pp. in 8vo. 

4. [1831.] "The Life of Mahomed, Founder of the 
Religion of Islam and of the Empire of the Saracens," by 
the Rev. Geo. Bush. First Canada edition, Niagara, 1831. 
112pp. in 8vo. 

5. [1831.] Chapman's reprint of Murray's Family 
Library. "The Life of Lord Nelson," by Robert Southey, 
Esq., LL.D., Poet Laureate, etc., etc. First Canada edition, 
Niagara, 1831. 140pp. in 8vo. 

6. [1832.] "The Life of Lord Byron," by John Gait, 
Esq., Niagara : Henry Chapman, publisher. Samuel Heron, 
printer, 1831. 200pp. in 8vo. 



I append a list of the several works published outside of 
the territory of Canada, from the period succeeding the close 
of the American war of 1783 and the establishment of 
Upper Canada, to the date of the union of the provinces, 
11th February, 1841. The names of only those writers are 
given, who considered the economic condition, the politics, 
the history of the province, and of those who, in the narrative 
of their travels, have furnished information concerning the 
period which they represent. The names not included 
are writers of sermons, religious and controversial books; 
the narratives of personal adventure, unless of historic 
interest ; works of fiction, poems, laudatory biography, 
papers on abstract science not directly related to Canada, the 
arraignment of slavery, and such works as may be classed 
under the title of general literature. 

I likewise leave unnoticed the pamphlets which have 



43 

appeared from time to time upon Canadian affairs. From 
about 1835 to the return home of Lord Durham in 1838, 
even to a later date, they are very numerous, and may be said 
to form in themselves a minor source of information apart 
from the works which I have named. It is not impossible 
that at some future period a catalogue of them may be 
attempted. 

Many of the volumes catalogued have long been forgotten, 
or, if at all read, it is owing to the record of some minor 
local fact of little general value. I consider, however, that 
this list will not be disdained by the historical student. I 
cannot hope that it will be found to be perfect. A great 
many names, however, are presented according to date, and 
it will be a comparatively easy matter in the future to 
supplement the list, as better information will admit. The 
calendar is submitted with this explanation. Generally 
speaking, I have appended some explanatory remarks con- 
cerning the volumes to which I could obtain access, and I 
trust they will not be held to be entirely valueless. Where 
I fail to do so, it has been from my inability to discover 
the books unnoticed. 

Jean-Frangois, Marquis de Chastellux. " Voyages dans 
L'Amerique Septentrionale, dans les annees, 1780, 1781, 
et 1782." Paris, Prault, 1788. 2 vols. 8vo. 

In English: " Travels in North America in the years 1780, 
1781 and 1782, by the Marquis de Chastellux, one of the 
forty members of the French Academy, and Major-General 
in the French Army, serving under the Count of Eocham- 
beau. Translated from the French by an English gentleman 
who resided in America at that period. With notes by the 
translator." London, 1777. 

I mention this work, being one of the earliest of this date. It has, 
however, no bearing upon Canada. It is the diary of two journeys ; 



44 

one, from Newport to Philadelphia, to Saratoga and to Ports- 
mouth in New Hampshire ; the second in Virginia. It contains 
information relative to the war of independence and some of the 
principal actors in it. 

George Cartwright. "A Journal of Transactions and 
Events during a residence of nearly sixteen years on the coast 
of Labrador. Containing many interesting particulars both 
of the country and its inhabitants not hitherto known. 
Illustrated with proper charts." Newark, 1792. 3 vols. 4to. 

Captain Cartwright, in a short biography of his life, tells us that 
he served in India, and was aide-de-camp to the celebrated Marquis 
of Granby. Afterwards, he obtained a company in the 37th regi- 
ment, was present at Minorca, and suffered from the ague; and, 
finally, retired on half -pay in 1770. On 17th May, 1770, he sailed 
for Newfoundland to obtain possession of the vessel in which the 
enterprise of trading in Labrador was to be carried out. 

There is a great deal of information in these three volumes, but 
it has to be sought for ; the narrative is often tedious, and dwells 
upon much which has little interest. 

Thomas Anbury. " Travels through the interior parts of 
America during the course of the last War. In a series of 
Letters, by an Officer to his friends." London, 1789 ; 2nd 
edition, 1791. 2 vols., 8vo. 

Translated by P. L. Lebas, Paris, 1790, afterwards by M. 
Noel of the College of Louis-le-Grand. Paris, 1793. 

This work is generally described under the name of Aubury. 
Although the name does not appear on the title page, it is given as 
Anbury in the dedication to Lord Harrington. There are several 
pages of subscribers. The author was an ensign of the 24th, and 
he collected in these two volumes the letters written by him during 
his stay in America. He landed in Quebec in October, 1776, and 
being a keen observer of what he saw, gives us a pleasantly written 
narrative of the opinions he formed of Canada at that time. The 
following year he took part in Burgoyne's unfortunate expedition, 
and after the surrender at Saratoga, was sent to Cambridge, not 
far from Boston. He was afterwards removed to Winchester, in 



45 

Virginia. In 1781 he obtained his liberty and reached New York. 
His letters, while giving a narrative of his own experience, record 
the impressions he formed of the country during the three years he 
passed there. 

P. Campbell. " Travels in the interior inhabited parts of 
North America in the years 1791 and 1792.*' In which is 
given an account of the manners and customs of the Indians, 
and the present war between them and the Federal States, 
the mode of life and system of farming among the new 
settlers of both Canadas, Xew York, Xew England, New 
Brunswick and Nova Scotia, interspersed with anecdotes of 
people, observations on the soil, natural productions and 
political situation of these countries. Illustrated with copper 
plates." Edinburgh, 1793. 

A curious narrative of the travels of a Highlander through some 
of the lately settled districts of Canada. The book can still be 
read with interest, owing to the relation of much not to be found 
elsewhere. At Burlington he passed three weeks with Brandt. 
A great-grand-daughter of Mr. Campbell is still living at Fort Erie. 

Thomas Cooper. " Some information respecting America, 
collected by Thomas Cooper, late of Manchester." London, 
1794. 8vo. 

In French. " Eenseignements sur l'Amerique Anglaise ; 
traduit de f Anglais." Paris, 1795. 8vo. 

This book has relation only to the United States. There is an 
appendix of some value bearing upon the migration of summer and 
winter birds of passage. 

Charles Grant, Yicomte de Yaux. " Adresse a toutes les 
puissances de TEurope sur l'etat present et futur de la 
noblesse, et du clerge Francais. Particulierement au 
Gouvernement Britannique, sur les moyens d'assurer a ces 
deux corps Texistence la plus convenable aux circonstances, 
moyennant un plan d'etablissements dans le Canada, les jiLtis 



46 

avantangeux possibles, soit au Commerce Britannique, soit 
aux Loyalistes." Londres, 1794. pp. 109. 

This work was an appeal made in England to aid the French 
noblesse and ecclesiastics, driven from France at the period of the 
revolution. One proposal being to establish them in Canada, four 
commissioners, French ecclesiastics, were sent to Quebec, in 1792, to 
make an examination as to the character and condition of the prov- 
ince. Their report, written in Quebec in the month of October, is 
here given. It contains much information, particularly as to the 
early settlements on Lake Ontario, and gives some detail, even, with 
regard to the Bay of Chaleurs. 

Several emigrants of French royalist families arrived in Canada 
in 1798, under M. de Puisaye. The subject is narrated at some 
length by Br. Brymner, in his Report Canadian Archives of 1888 
[p. XXVI., ap. 85] to which the reader is referred. 

" A letter descriptive of trie different settlements in the 
Province of Upper Canada." London, 1795. 

This volume of 27 pages give the fullest picture we possess of the 
condition of the Province in 1794. It is written in the form of a 
letter from New York, but having been published in London, it may 
be assumed that this method was followed as a matter of conveni- 
ence, and it is not impossible that it had an official origin. It 
commences by stating that vessels sailed from Oswego to Niagara, 
Kingston and other ports on Lake Ontario, but that generally 
settlers followed the south shore to Niagara in the same open boats 
in which they had arrived, plainly having in view such as had 
ascended the Saint Lawrence. Settlement is described as extending 
to lake Saint Francis ; vessels, however, seldom went below Kings- 
ton. Even at that date the quarries in the neighbourhood were 
held of value. The most flourishing settlements were to be found 
round the bay of Quinte. The soil was so easily worked, that 
without any other cultivation but that of the iron-toothed harrow, 
it produced from one to three crops of from 20 to 30 bushels of 
wheat to the acre. The whole bay at this date had "the appear- 
ance of a beautiful old settled country." Lake Ontario was then 
plentifully supplied with fish at all seasons of the year. In the 
winter, quantities of white fish were caught by seines from two to 



47 

six lbs. in weight. Sturgeon, bass and other species were in great 
plenty. Salmon was taken in all the creeks running into the lake. 
The land around Newark (Niagara) was inhabited for fifty miles. 
The writer claims to have been acquainted Avith Mr., afterwards 
Sir David Smith, the surveyor general, and to have had access to 
his notes. Queenston, seven miles above Niagara, was the spot 
where vessels were unloaded and ' ' took in furs collected from three 
to one thousand five hundred miles back." The upper landing- 
place was at Chippewa Creek ; the portage was an increasing 
source of wealth to the farmers for many miles around. The cost 
of transport was one shilling and eightpence N.Y. currency per 
cwt. From Chippewa the merchandise was carried by bateaux on 
lake Erie to Detroit and Michillimackinac. 

Hamilton had just been located "a small town" at the head of 
lake Ontario, a central place between Newark and York, "called 
by the natives Toronto," to Detroit. A road of twenty miles is 
"cut out" to the Grand river, which it crosses about fifty miles 
above the entrance into lake Erie, and continues to the river La 
Tranche, now called the Thames. Settlements were being made 
between Hamilton and Niagara, and partial ones along the river 
Thames to the extent of eighty or ninety miles. The town of York 
(Toronto) was in great forwardness, and a road cut to lake Simcoe. 
Settlement was commencing on this line of road, and on the east 
side one hundred German families had established themselves in 
rear of these lots. They had arrived in the summer of 1794, 
"furnished with everything necessary to make their situation 
comfortable. They are sustained by a company who supply them 
with teams, utensils and provisions." 

The settlement was begun by a few disbanded troops after the 
peace of 1783. As in the United States the opinion prevailed that 
the country was entirely under military control, but few emigrants 
arrived. When it, however, became known that a civil government 
was established under a happily -formed constitution, numbers left 
the United States to live under the British flag. They were among 
the most respectable of the inhabitants. Some arrived in waggons 
even from North Carolina to the mouth of the Genesee river. As 
the open road did not extend beyond this spot, they were trans- 
ported in boats to the mouth of the Niagara river, and thence by 
boat to York. Large grants of land were also being made to the 
Royalists. 



48 

The writer highly commends the wisdom of dividing Canada into 
the then two provinces. I do not wish here to enter into that 
question, for I have to do so in another place. One fact is very- 
evident in the then condition of the country with its imperfect 
roads, it would have been simply impossible for members repre- 
senting the early settlements of Upper Canada to have found their 
way to a legislative assembly holding its meetings in Quebec. 
A great deal has been written on this point without reflection ; the 
same may be said with regard to the abandonment of the territory 
south and west of lake Erie, now the states of Ohio, Michigan and 
Illinois. To me it appears it would have been impossible to have 
retained the territory without very strong military posts ; and they 
could only have been maintained at a great cost of men and money, 
the possession of which ultimately would have been the cause of 
another war from the aggressive spirit of the border population of 
the United States. Modern writers set out of view that for some 
years after the peace of Versailles, war with the United States from 
the failure on the part of that government to observe the treaties 
with regard to Canada and British interests, was for a long time a 
matter of no slight probability, and that it was greatly owing to 
the honest wisdom of Washington, and those who sustained him, 
that hostilities were avoided. 

We learn that the land rights of Indians were extinguished by fair 
and just purchase, as the population of the country required addi- 
tional territory. It is one of the most honourable facts of Canadian 
history, that this policy has never been departed from, and that it 
prevails to this day. The writer of the book describes the political 
institutions of the country, and much of its interior economy. We 
learn from him that bateaux of 25 barrels bulk, with four men, 
reached Kingston from Montreal in six to eight days, and returned 
in three days, with furs, potash and other produce. He is one of 
the few who do not rise to enthusiasm about the Falls of Niagara, 
although by no means a matter-of-fact personage. He informs us 
that a quantity of British goods found their way to the Mississippi ; 
and he speaks of Sir Alexander Mackenzie's expedition to the Pacific 
Ocean as worthy of comment. This unpretentious volume is one of 
the most useful which we possess of this class. 

De La Kochef oucault-Liancour. " Voyage dans les Etats- 



49 

Unis de l'Amerique en 1795 et 1797. Enriclii de plusieurs 
cartes.*' Paris, 1798. 8 vols, in 8vo. 

" Travels through the United States of North America, 
the country of the Iroquois and Upper Canada in the years 
1795, 1796, and 1797, with an authentic account of Lower 
Canada. Translated from the French [with Maps].' 5 London, 
1800. Second edition. 4 vols., 4to. 

The due de Rochefoucault was born in 1747, and died in 1829. His 
work represents the condition of the agriculture, manufactures and 
commerce of the period. He likewise gives his impressions of the 
national life and domestic habits of the people. De Rochefoucault 
remained nearly three years in the L'nited States. 

He crossed the Xiagara river on the 20th of June, 1795, two 
miles below fort Erie. He was received by the captain of a frigate 
in command of the lakes, on the part of Governor Simcoe, with due 
ceremony. Fort Erie had a small garrison of the 5th regiment. 
There were some troops at fort Chippewa ; the head-quarters of 
the regiment was at Xiagara. Detroit and the western forts were 
held by the 25th ; these frontier forts not having been given over 
to the United States. He found specie, hard money, very scarce, 
business being carried on by paper notes, some of which were as 
low as two pence. De Rochefoucault was one of the first to give an 
elaborate description of the Falls. At Xiagara he met Governor 
Simcoe, who shewed him lord Dorchester's order, not to allow any 
foreigner to enter Lower Canada, and Simcoe was obliged to apply 
to lord Dorchester at Kingston for a passport for him to do so. 
The duke thus remained some time with Simcoe, in the hope of 
obtaining this permission. He gives us the most favourable impres- 
sion of the governor and his wife, a woman of sense and capacity, 
who acted as her husband's private secretary, and aided in the 
preparation of maps. He describes with ability the institutions 
and condition of Upper Canada ; he has, however, some extra- 
ordinary views concerning the Indians. He relates that 50,000 
were prepared, in case of war, to take the British side, all of whom 
had taken an oath not to leave a scalp on any "American" they fell 
in with. 

M. de Rochefoucault was not permitted to enter Lower Canada. 

D 



50 

It was not, however, a matter of whim that enforced the prohi- 
bition ; the relations between the United States and Great Britain 
were then very delicate, and events were assuming an ominous 
outlook. The refusal to allow de Rochefoucault to visit Lower 
Canada by the Saint Lawrence was on the theory that he was 
acting in the interest of the United States, for if war broke out, 
Canada would have been the battle-field. Great Britain was dis- 
satisfied with the non-fulfilment of Articles IV. and VI. of the 
Treaty of Versailles, in 1783, which provided for the restitution of 
all estates, rights and properties belonging to British subjects. 
Article V. provided that Congress should recommend the States 
to carry out these conditions. At a subsequent date, Jefferson 
characteristically declared that all the United States had agreed to 
was, to recommend to the states that the conditions should be 
observed, but with no expectation that the recommendation would be 
carried out. On all sides every difficulty was thrown in the way of 
fulfilling these obligations. Great Britain therefore declared that 
these articles not being observed, its government could not be held 
to the fulfilment of the obligation to surrender the frontier forts. 
It was, indeed, not until 1796 that the transfer was made. 

The answer arrived on the 22nd of July, prohibiting a visit to 
Lower Canada. We can understand that these memoirs do not 
contain a flattering portrait of lord Dorchester. The remarks 
bearing upon Canada are worthy of attention and contain much 
information. Not being allowed to descend the Saint Lawrence, 
the duke proceeded to Oswego, and from that spot continued his 
travels in the United States. 

J. C. Ogclen. "A tour through Upper and Lower 
Canada. By a citizen of the United States. Containing a 
view of the present state of religion, learning, commerce, 
agriculture, colonization, customs, and manners among the 
English, French, and Indian Settlements." Lichfield, 1797. 
12mo. 

2nd Edition. Wilmington, 1800, by John. C. Ogden, of 
the Episcopal Church. 

The author, son-in-law of General David Wooster, resided in 
New Haven, 1771-85. Subsequently, he was the incumbent of the 



51 

episcopal church at Portsmouth, N.H. The description of Upper 
Canada, forming a separate letter of 26 pages, is full of interest, 
shewing the author's strong sympathies with the royalists. 

Isaac Weld. "Travels through the States of North 
America and the Provinces of Upper and Lover Canada 
during the- years 1795, 1-796 and 1797." London. 2nd 
Edition. 1799. 2 vols., 8vo. 

Translated, Paris, 1799. 3 vols., 8vo. 

Mr. Weld entered Canada by lake Champlain and made his way 
to Montreal and to Quebec. The navigation of the lake was not 
then a pleasant matter, being made in ten -ton boats, which in bad 
weather sought shelter. Weld gives a picturesque account of the 
country wherever he travels, and is a shrewd observer of manners 
and social habits. As we read the picture of those days we see how 
much, in some respects, remains unchanged. Our present mode of 
travel, however, is, in fact as in date, a century in advance ; the 
navigation of the Saint Lawrence is not now undertaken in a bateau 
as in the time of Weld. The notes of his journey to Quebec record 
the time it then occupied. He left Montreal on the 1st day of 
August, at eleven, and at five arrived at Sorel. The next morning 
he proceeded on his journey and reached Batiscan, where he slept. 
The third night he passed at Saint Augustin. On the fourth morning 
he arrived at Quebec. The usual time, remarks Weld, does not 
exceed two days, when the wind is fair and tide favourable. Weld 
ascended the Saint Lawrence, stopping at Kingston, the Niagara 
Falls and Newark [Niagara]. There was then mention of moving 
the seat of government elsewhere, and of cutting a canal round the 
portage : the forerunner of the scheme of the Welland Canal. 
Weld was at Niagara in September, 1796, after the posts had been 
ceded to the United States : Oswegatchie [Ogdensburg], Oswego, 
Niagara, Detroit and Michillimackinac. He went as far as Maiden, 
on the Detroit River, where he took leave of Canada. 

Sir Alexander Mackenzie. " Voyages from Montreal on 
the River St. Lawrence, through the continent of North 
America, to the Frozen and Pacific Oceans, in the years 1789 
and 1793; with a preliminary account of the rise, progress, 



52 

and present state of the Fur Trade of that country." 
Illustrated with Maps. London, 1801. 1 vol. 8vo. 
Philadelphia, 1802. 1 vol. 8vo. 

Sir Alexander Mackenzie was the first white man to reach the 
Arctic Ocean, by the river which bears his name, and the first who 
crossed the Rocky Mountains and reached the Pacific. There are 
few more valuable contributions to the history of travel, and his 
narrative is still read and held in the highest estimation. 

" Sketch of His Majesty's province of Upper Canada," 
by D'Arcy Boulton, Barrister-at-Law. London, 1805. 4to. 

This quarto volume is dedicated to the King [George III.]. It 
is the recommendation of Upper Canada as a field of emigration to 
the British settler. The opening sentence is typical of the tone of 
the book. ' ' An honest man, with industry, may live there in 
greater ease and with less labour than in any part of the continent 
with which I am acquainted." The volume is valuable for the 
information it gives of the period. It describes the districts and 
character of the settlements, and the local detail it furnishes will 
be invaluable to the county historian. The appendix contains an 
account of the several townships, alphabetically arranged. 

George Heriot. " Travels through the Canadas, contain- 
ing a description of the picturesque scenery on some of the 
Kivers and Lakes ; with an account of the productions, 
commerce, and inhabitants of those Provinces : to which is 
subjoined a comparative view of the manners and customs 
of several of the Indian Nations of North and South 
America. Illustrated with a map and numerous engravings, 
from drawings made at the several places by the author." 
London, 1807. 4to. 

On the appearance of this work, exception was taken to the some- 
what minute geographical description of the second part. It is 
this feature of the narrative which to-day gives any value to the 
work with the local antiquary. Mr. Heriot was deputy postmaster- 
general of British North America. 

Hugh Gray. " Letters from Canada, written during a resi- 



53 

dence there in the years 1806, 1807, and 1808, shewing the 
present state of Canada, its productions, trade, commercial, 
and political relations. Illustrative of the laws and manners 
of the people and the peculiarities of the country and climate. 
Exhibiting also the commercial importance of Nova Scotia, 
New Brunswick, and Cape Breton ; and their increasing abil- 
ity, in conjunction with Canada, to furnish the necessary sup- 
plies of Lumber and provisions to our West India Islands." 
London, 1809. 8vo. 2nd Edition, 1814. 

This volume is evidently the result of much study and reflection. 
While it considers the resources and capabilities of the province, it 
relates sufficient of its history to admit of political speculation. 
Mr. Gray looked upon the division of Canada into two provinces as 
having been unwise, and recommended their re-union as a matter 
easy of accomplishment. 

Alexander Henry. " Travels and Adventures in Canada 
and in the Indian Territories, between the years 1760 and 
1776." New York, 1809. 8vo. 

Tt is to Henry's narrative that we are indebted to a knowledge of 
the seizure of the fort at Michillimackinac in 1763 by the Indians. 
Independently of the account of this event, and the interest con- 
nected with Henry's personal career, the work is valuable as a pic- 
ture of the times and the description of the customs and manners 
of both the Indian and the Indian traders. 

John Mills Jackson. "A Yiew of the political Situation 
of the province of Upper Canada, in [North America ; in 
which her physical capacity is stated ; the means of diminish- 
ing her burden, increasing her value, and securing her con- 
nection to Great Britain, are fully considered." London, 
1809. 8vo. 

Mr. Jackson inherited a tract of land in the province of Quebec, 
and visited Lower Canada to investigate his title. He proceeded to 
Upper Canada, and was so much pleased with what he saw, that he 
determined to purchase property and settle there. Subsequently, 



54 

considering "neither his person nor property secure," he relin- 
quished the project. With this feeling he published the volume. 
He complains of the mode in which, in the days of Governor 
Simcoe and Mr. Russell, grants of land had been obtained, and of 
the exorbitant fees exacted. Indeed, he calls in question the whole 
system of land grants ; he arraigns the courts of law ; he defends 
Mr. Justice Thorpe, and pronounces Governor Gore's conduct to 
him to be unjust; he speaks of the "ruinous expenditure and 
mismanagement of the public money ; " he appeals on these matters 
to the Imperial Parliament. The appendix contains several docu- 
ments not without importance. 

John Lambert. " Travels through Canada and the United 
States of iNorth America, in the years 1806, 1807 and 1808. 
To which are added, biographical notices and anecdotes of 
some of the leading characters in the United States ;" with a 
map and numerous engravings. London, 1st Edition, 2 
vols., 1810; 2nd Ed., 2 vols., 1813; 3rd Ed., 2 vols., cor- 
rected and improved, 1816. 

The first volume is devoted to Canada, the second to the United 
States. Lambert landed at Quebec in October, 1806. He furnishes 
a picture of the place of that date, and describes the social manners, 
dress and political events which were happening, with more than 
the usual care bestowed by the passing traveller. Much of his 
historical narrative, however, is not in accordance with fact, having 
been disproved by authentic documents. From Quebec he visited 
Three Rivers and Montreal, and ascending Lake Champlain entered 
the United States. Lambert remained at Quebec from November, 
1806, to August, 1807. He came back to Canada in 1808, in order to 
obtain a passage home. We learn from this work that at this date, 
both at Quebec and Montreal, the theatre had been established and 
performances periodically given. His account does not suggest 
that the acting was of a high order. 

M. Smith. "A Geographical View of the Province of 
Upper Canada, and promiscuous remarks upon the Govern- 
ment ; in 2 parts, with an appendix : containing a complete 
description of jSTiagara Falls, and remarks relative to the 



55 

situation of the Inhabitants respecting the War." Phila- 
delphia, 1813. pp. 118. 12mo. 

This book reached a 5th Edition. The title of the 4th and 5th 
editions was changed to : — 

"A Geographical View of the British possessions in Xorth 
America, comprehending Xova Scotia, Xew Brunswick, ~New 
Britain, Lower and Upper Canada, with all the country to 
the Frozen Sea, on the Xorth and Pacific Ocean on the 
AVest ; with an appendix containing a concise history of the 
war in Canada to the date of this volume." By M. Smith, 
author of the "View of Upper Canada." Baltimore, 1814. 
6th Edition, Lexington, 1816. 

New Britain was the name given to that part of Labrador situate 
between the 59th and 65th degrees of latitude. 

The book is of value from giving a description of the social and 
political conditions of Upper Canada in the years of war from 1812 
to 1814, from the standing-point of a United States citizen. 

Mr. M. Smith tells us in his preface that in 1812 he had obtained 
permission of lieut. -governor Gore to publish the volume, when war 
was declared by the United States government. Being a citizen of 
the republic and not being willing to take the oath of allegiance, he 
obtained passports for his own country. His MSS. having been 
taken from him before he left Canada, he was forced to supply their 
place from his rough notes. 

One is somewhat puzzled to explain the publication of the volume 
under such conditions at this date, unless on the theory that the 
publishers considered it advisable to furnish information concerning 
the country to the north so soon to be a prey to the conqueror ! 

Sir David William Smyth, Bart, "A Short Topo- 
graphical description of His Majesty's Province of Upper 
Canada, in North America. To which is added a Provincial 
Gazetteer." London, 1799. pp. 166. 8vo. 2nd Edition, 
Do. 1813. pp. 123. 8vo. 

The following remarks are appended : " The accompany- 



56 

ing Notes and Gazetteer were drawn np by David William 
Symth, the very able Surveyor-General of the province of 
Upper Canada, at the desire of Major-General Simcoe, on 
the plan of those of the late Captain Hutchins for the River 
Ohio and the countries adjacent." 

The copy in the Parliamentary Library is the second edi- 
tion, " revised and corrected by Francis Gore, Esq., Lieut. - 
Governor." London, 1813. 

The work is valuable from the statistical information it furnishes. 

Hon. Jonathan Sewell, LL.D. " A Plan for the Federal 
Union of the British Provinces in North America." 
London, 1814. 

" On the Advantages of Opening the River St. Lawrence 
to the Commerce of the World." Do. 1814. 

Mr. Sewell was afterwards Chief Justice of Lower Canada. 

David Anderson. " Canada : or a view of the importance 
of the British- American Colonies, shewing their Extensive 
and Improveable Resources, and pointing out the great and 
unprecedented advantages which have been allowed to the 
Americans over our own colonists ; together with the great 
sacrifices which have been made by our late commercial 
regulations of the commerce and the carrying trade of Great 
Britain to the United States," &c, &c. London, 1814. 8vo. 

The declared object of this work was to shew the importance of 
the Canadas, with a view to adequate measures being taken for 
their defence ; and in condemnation of the policy by which the in- 
terests of British ship owners and North American colonists had 
been sacrificed to the United States. The writer had passed several 
years in British North America. The work is written in the in- 
terest of the carrying trade, and is confined to the investigation of 
the subjects which the inquiry suggests. 

J. Melish. "Military documents concerning the Opera- 



57 

tions of the British Army under General Wolfe in 1759-60, 
and concerning the War of 1812." Philadelphia, 1814. 8vo. 
"Travels in the United States of America in the years 
1806 and 1807, and 1809, 1810 and 1811, including an 
account of passages between America and Britain, and 
Travels through various parts of Great Britain, Ireland and 
Upper Canada." Illustrated by eight maps. 2 vols. Phila- 
delphia, 1812, 1818. London, 1818. Dublin, 1818. German 
edition, Weimar, 1819. 8 vo. 

This work is mentioned owing to its having been included in the 
catalogue of works bearing upon Canada. The author, who had 
served an apprenticeship in Glasgow, in 1806 resolved to commence 
business on his own account, and in this year sailed to the United 
States. We learn (p. 497) that he never crossed the Niagara river 
from Lewiston to Queenston, " the wind was blowing so strong." 
He, however, gave five pages of the information with regard to 
Canada which he could gather from books. The volume, in view of 
Canada, is without the least importance. The text suggests that 
the writer's sympathy with the United States was of no limited 
character. 

John Eardley-TrHmot, F.B.S. " Historical Yiew of the 
Commission for Inquiring into the losses, services and claims 
of the American Loyalists, at the close of the War between 
Great Britain and her Colonies in 1783 ; with an account of 
the compensation granted to them by Parliament in 1785 
and 1788." London, 1815. 8vo. 

This work is important for reference in questions affecting the 
treatment of the American loyalists. It must always be referred 
to with great interest by the descendants of the U. E. loyalist 
families who first came to Canada. It enters into the histories of 
Articles IV., V., VI., of the Treaty of Versailles, by which the 
rights of the royalists were protected. The author contends that 
the ' *' utmost possible pains were taken to procure more substantial 
Terms for the Loyalists " . . . " further, that the Treaty was 
on the point of breaking off on this account alone." 



58 

Joseph Bouchette, Lieut. -Colonel. (1.) "A Topographical 
description of the Province of Lower Canada, with remarks 
upon Upper Canada, and on the relative connection of both 
provinces with the United States of America." London, 
1815. B. 8vo. Plates 17. Also in French. 

(2.) "The British Dominions in North America, or a 
topographical and statistical description of the Provinces of 
Lower and Upper Canada, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, 
the islands of Newfoundland, Prince Edward and Cape 
Breton, including considerations on land granting and emi- 
gration, and a Topographical Dictionary of Lower Canada ; 
to which are annexed statistical tables and tables of 
distances." Published with the author's maps of Lower 
Canada, in consequence of a vote of the Provincial Legisla- 
ture. Embellished with vignettes, views, landscapes, plans 
of towns, harbours, &c; containing also a copious appendix. 
London, 1831. 3 vols. 4to. 

Colonel Bouchette was at this period surveyor -general of Lower 
Canada, and, accordingly, he had access to maps, documents and 
official reports, which to a great extent assured the accuracy of his 
work. His volumes, consequently at the time, were of the greatest 
value, and long remained the text book of the province. They 
contain a representative view of the Dominion at that date. They 
are often referred to, and are to be found in every library. Colonel 
Bouchette's careful and conscientious work remains an admirable 
example to all who desire to write upon the subject in modern 
times. 

Joseph Sansom. " Sketches of Lower Canada, historical 
and descriptive ; with the Author's Recollections of the soil 
and aspect, the morals, habits and religious institutions of 
that isolated country ; during a Tour to Quebec, in the 
month of July, 1817." New York, 1817. 12mo. 

This volume, dedicated to DeWitt Clinton, is a short record of 
the travels of an United States citizen. It is the tourist's ordinary 



59 

narrative, of no interest at present. He tells, however, that at 
that date salmon were plentiful in the Jacques Cartier River. 

John Lewis Thomson. "Historical Sketches of the late 
War between the United States and Great Britain, blended 
with anecdotes illustrative of the Individual Bravery of 
the American Sailors, Soldiers and Citizens ; embellished 
with Portraits of the most distinguished Naval and Military 
Officers : and accompanied by Views of Several Sieges and 
Engagements." Philadelphia, 12mo. 1st Edition, 1816. 
5th Edition, 1818. 

This work is the history of the war of 1812, by a United States 
citizen. Its title suggests its character. 

Lieut. Edward Chappell. " Narrative of a voyage to 
Hudson's Bay in His Majesty's Ship ' Kosamund ' ; contain- 
ing some account of the Xorth Eastern coast of America, 
and of the Tribes inhabiting that remote region." London, 

1817. 8vo. 

"Voyage to Xewfoundland and the Southern Coast of 
Labrador, of which countries no account has been published 
since the reign of Queen Elizabeth." London, 1818. 8vo. 

The former is a narrative of a voyage to York factory. Contain- 
ing much information, the book is useful for general reference ; it 
specially relates the voyage to Hudson's Bay of La Perouse in 1782 
with a line of battle ship and two frigates. With this force he 
expected to capture the company's ships in their annual voyage 
with their rich cargo of furs and oil. Both of these vessels eluded 
his attack and escaped. La Perouse, angered at his want of 
success, burned York factory. Lieut. Chappel proceeded some 
distance up Hayes' River. He was the first, I believe, who gave a 
map of the route by the Xelson River to Lake Winnipeg, made 
from the explorations of Mr. William Hillier, a master in the royal 
navy. 

Francis Hall, Lieut. 14th Light Dragoons. "Travels in 
Canada and the United States in 1816 and 1817." London, 

1818. 8vo. 



60 

Mr. Hall arrived in winter, and in the following July proceeded 
to Kamouraska, crossed to Malbaie and returned to Quebec. The 
narrative is not very lively, but we read names we meet at this 
day. He returned to Montreal and reached Kingston, where he 
crossed to Sackett's Harbour and pursued his travels in the United 
States. 

John Palmer. "Journal of Travels in the United States 
of North. America and Lower Canada, performed in the year 
1817; containing particulars relating to the prices of land 
and provisions, remarks on the country and people, interest- 
ing anecdotes, and an account of the commerce, trade and 
present state of Washington, New York, Philadelphia, 
Boston, Baltimore, Albany, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Lexing- 
ton, Quebec, Montreal, &c. To which are added a descrip- 
tion of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri, and a variety of 
other useful information, &c." [With a map.] London, 

1818. 8vo. 

About thirty pages only of this volume are devoted to Canada. 
Palmer was present at a buffalo baiting. There were seven bull 
dogs brought against the male and female buffalo. The dogs were 
easily beaten off by the male. Both the poor brutes bore the signs 
of many such encounters. He also describes a charivari which 
took place after a M. Ballet, an elderly member of the House of 
Assembly, had married his maid. The unfortunate husband 
endeavoured to resist, but, finally, had to pay the tax for the poor, 
which his riotous visitors exacted. 

Thomas, Earl of Selkirk. (1.) "Sketch of the British Fur 
Trade in North America, with observations relative to the 
North-West Company of Montreal." London, 1816. pp. 130. 
8vo. New York, 1818. In French, Montreal, 1819. 

(2.) "A letter to the Earl of Liverpool from the Earl of 
Selkirk, accompanied by a Correspondence with the Colonial 
Department (in the years 1817, 1818, 1819), on the subject 
of the Eed Eiver Settlement in North America." London, 

1819. pp.224. 8vo. Printed for private distribution only. 



61 

The Earl of Selkirk will always be remembered in Canadian 
history as the founder of the Red River Settlement in 1817. His 
career in the North- West is an important chapter of history, 
marked by difficulty and bloodshed, concerning which much has 
been published. The several memoirs on the subject, printed by 
Selkirk at the time, were for private circulation only. It was not 
until the union of the Hudson's Bay and the North -West Com- 
panies, in 1821, that peace was assured, and the settlement was 
continued under certain limitations. 

H. B. Frearon. " Sketches in America." 1818. 8vo. 

This work has reference only to the United States. The author 
arrived in New York 5th August, 1817, and left for England May 
10th, 1818, having made the tour of the Eastern and Western 
States. 

John Douglas. "Medical Topography of Upper Canada." 
London, 1819. 

The author served as assistant surgeon in the 8th regiment until 
1816. I have not seen this work. 

Gilbert, J. Hunt. " The late War between the United 
States and Great Britain, from June, 1812, to February, 
1815, written in the ancient historical style." 3rd Edition. 
New York, 1819. 

The narrative is carried on in chapter and verse in the phrase- 
ology of the Bible. 

There is another rare work of this character in the Parliamentary 
Library at Ottawa : — 

" The History of the American Revolution in Scripture style, to 
which is added the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution 
of the United [States of America, and the interesting farewell 
address of General Washington. " Frederick County, Md. Printed 
and published by Matthew Bartgis at Pleasant Dale Paper Mill, 
1823. 

This book has been attributed to Mr. P. Snowdens. 

Charles Frederick Grece. " Facts and Observations 



62 

respecting Canada and the United States of America, afford- 
ing a comparative view of the inducements to Emigration 
presented to those countries. To which is added an appendix 
of Practical Instructions to Emigrant Settlers in the British 
Colonies." London, 1819. pp. xv. and 172. 8vo. 

The design of this book was to give a view of the agricultural 
condition of the province, the cost of clearing land, and to set forth 
the circumstances under which an emigrant should endeavour to 
establish himself. Many details and much general information are 
given. This book is a representation of Canada of half a century 
back, considered from the author's point of view. 

E. Mackenzie. "An Historical, Topographical and Descrip- 
tive Yiew of the United States of America and of Upper and 
Lower Canada ; with an Appendix, containing a brief and 
comprehensive sketch of the present state of Mexico and 
South America ; and also of the Native Tribes of the ]N"ew 
World." 2nd Edition. Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 1819. 8vo. 
"With maps and engravings. 

The allusion to Canada is very brief ; the work appears to have 
been compiled from the statements of previous writers rather than 
from personal observation. 

Benjamin Silliman. "Remarks made on a Short Tour 
"between Hartford and Quebec, in the autumn of 1819." 
New Haven, 1820. 12mo. 

Mr. Silliman entered Canada by Lake Champlain, and visited 
Montreal and Quebec. It is the record of a journey made by a man 
of education. It is pleasantly written and attracted attention at 
the time, but to-day it is without interest. 

Gabriel Franchere. " Eelation d'un Voyage a la cote du 
Nord-Ouest de 1'Amerique Septentrionale dans les annees 
1810, 11, 12, 13 et 14." Montreal, 1820. 8vo. 

From the place of publication the volume may at first be con- 
sidered as belonging to Quebec bibliography. The narrative has, 



63 

however, no relation to that province. Franchere was one of 
several Canadians who entered into the service of the Pacific Fur 
Company, the principal personage of which was Mr. John Jacob 
Astor. They proceeded to Fort Astoria on the Pacific. The Com- 
pany eventually sold their property to the Xorth-West Company 
of Canada. Franchere declined to transfer his services to the 
purchasers, and returned by an overland journey to Montreal. The 
party making this journey ascended the Columbia to the great bend, 
and crossed the mountains to follow the River Athabasca, and the 
now well-known route to Lake Superior. Leaving Fort George, 
the new name given to Astoria, on the 4th of April, Franchere 
and those accompanying him arrived at Montreal on the 1st of 
September. The original MS. is in the possession of the Public 
Library, Toronto. 

C. Stuart. "The Emigrants' Guide to Upper Canada, or 
sketches of the present state of that Province, collected from 
a residence therein during the years 1817, 1818, 1819, inter- 
spersed with reflections by C. Stuart, Esq., retired captain 
of the Honourable the East India Company service, and one 
of his Majesty's justices of the peace for the western district 
of Upper Canada. 'Deliberate, Decide and Dare.' " London, 
1820. 12mo. 

Mr. Stuart formed an unfavourable opinion of the province. He 
asks the question what was the benefit to be derived by the British 
government taking steps to defend the country. 

Daniel TTilliams Harmon. "A Journal of Voyages and 
Travels in the Interior of Xorth America, between the 47th 
and 58th degrees of north latitude, extending from Montreal 
nearly to the Pacific Ocean, a distance of near 5,000 miles ; 
including an account of the principal occurrences during a 
residence of nineteen years in different parts of the country ; 
to which are added a concise description of the face of the 
country, its inhabitants, their manners, customs, laws, reli- 
gion, &c." Andover, 1820. 8vo. 



64 

Mr. Harmon left Lachine in 1800 with a party of the North-West 
Company, and led the life of a fur trader in the region of the Rocky 
Mountains until 1819, when he returned to Montreal. He was 
engaged at many of the stations on the Fraser and at Peace River, 
having lived eight and a half years west of the Rocky Mountains. 
His work is valuable in many respects, throwing much light on 
those days, especially from his experience of Indian life. 

"A few plain directions for persons intending to proceed 
as settlers to His Majesty's province of Upper Canada, in 
North America. Pointing out the best Port to embark at 
for Quebec. Provisions and other things necessary to be 
provided for the Voyage," &c, &c, &c. By an English 
farmer settled in Upper Canada. London, 1820. 12mo. 

The advice given in these pages to emigrants is still applicable, 
although the conditions described are changed. Much that is said 
holds good for the traveller ; for instance, he is warned to look after 
his baggage. The "farmer" tells us, "a small trunk or other light 
article may easily be taken away by another passenger through 
mistake" The taverns of the localities are also described. One 
matter for surprise is the high fees exacted on the issue of 
patents for land, a table of which he gives. There is much infor- 
mation concerning the wild animals, the forest trees, and the farm 
produce of the province. The book is naturally written and was of 
use in the condition of the country. 

J. Strachan. "A Yisit to the Province of Upper Canada 
in 1819." Aberdeen, 1820. 8vo. 

The author, the brother of the still well remembered Bishop of 
Toronto, visited the province in 1819. Having been separated from 
his brother for more than twenty-five years, the main object of 
sailing from Aberdeen was once more to see him. He describes the 
country, its advantages, its geography, the cost of living. As he 
had had the opportunity of meeting many distinguished persons, he 
relates some of the conversations held with them, throwing light on 
several points in dispute. Among other matters he alludes to Mr. 
Gourlay's career. Some of the stories told are full of humour. 



65 

A. Amos. "Keport of trials in the Courts of Canada, 
relative to the destruction of the Earl of Selkirk's settlement 
on the Eed River ; with observations." London, 1820. 
pp. iv. and 388. 8vo. 

We have in these pages reports of the trials of the parties 
implicated in the outrages committed on Lord Selkirk's settlement. 
Four persons were tried in Montreal in May, 1818, before Chief - 
Justice Monk and Judge Bowen. Two others were tried at Toronto 
in October, 1818, before a full bench, for the murder of Governor 
Semple on the 17th of June, 1816, at the well-known encounter at 
Seven Oaks. Other parties were included in the arraignment, but 
they did not appear. They were all found "not guilty." These 
trials, with three others of the same character, are reported in full, 
the object of the publication of the book being, it is said, to illus- 
trate the administration of justice in Canada, with regard to the 
North- West ; the greatest criminals escaping all legal consequence 
of their misdeeds, from the protection of the North-West Company. 

There are a great many publications extant, which were written 
at this time, on the rival claims of the North-West and Hudson's 
Bay Companies ; some of a few pages, in other cases they present a 
good sized volume. For a time the antagonistic pretensions of 
these two bodies were advocated with much acrimony. It is not 
possible in this calendar to enter into the circumstances of this old 
quarrel, the result of which has passed out of memory with the 
events which characterized it. The history is to be sought in many 
narratives, written in much bitterness of spirit, many of the writers 
having been prominent actors in the dispute. 

I do not conceive it to be a part of my duty to re-integrate these 
forgotten volumes. The events which they record are only of local 
interest, and do not bear upon the history of Canada of that period. 

D. Dainville. "Beautes de Thistoire du Canada ou 
Epoques memorables, traits interessants, moeurs, usages, 
coutumes des Habitans du Canada, tant indigenes que 
Colons, depuis sa decouverte jusqu'a ce jour." Paris, 1821. 
12mo. 

The author of this work it is believed was Mr. Gustave Bossange, 
of the firm of the well-known booksellers at Paris. In a familiar 



66 

style he relates the first voyages of discovery, and the settlement 
and early years of Quebec, with a compressed narrative of the 
history of the country to the date of publication. In the same 
form he describes the manners and customs of the Indians. 

This volume would still be useful to any one knowing nothing of 
the subject, desirous of rapidly gaining some information regarding 
it ; provided he did not look for critical accuracy of the facts 
presented. The seventy years which have elapsed since its appear- 
ance have much modified many of the opinions expressed. The 
book, however, is simply and naturally written, and may be taken 
as a model for a work of a similar character. 

C. Smart. " The Emigrant's guide to Upper Canada : or 
Sketches of the present State of that Province, collected 
from a residence therein during the years 1817, 1818, 1819. 
Interspersed with reflections." London, 1821. pp. 335. 
12 mo. 
I have not been able to meet this volume. 

Henry J. Finn. " Montgomery ; or, the Falls of Mont- 
morenci. A new national drama." Boston, 1821. 

The author, an actor, made his first appearance in Montreal in 
1811. 

John Howison. " Sketches of Upper Canada, Domestic, 
Local and Characteristic : to which are added Practical 
Details for the information of Emigrants of every class, and 
some Recollections of the United States." Edinburg, 1821. 
8vo. 

The writer of this volume travelled from Quebec through Canada 
to Sandwich, where he crossed the Detroit River to pass into the 
United States. We do not meet with any profound observations, 
but the author is always sensible, and, not writing for effect, gener- 
ally expresses himself with fairness and accuracy. He formed 
definite views from what he experienced, and points out, that to 
those desirous of being exempt from the restrictions of fashion and 
ceremony, with small incomes and moderate expectations, Canada 
could not fail to be an agreeable place of residence. 



67 

Wm. Dalton. " Travels in the United States of America 
and part of Upper Canada." Appleby, 1821. 12mo. 

This traveller crossed the river Niagara at Fort Erie and reached 
Queenston, whence he passed over to Lewiston. It was the only 
"part of Upper Canada" visited by him. 

Kobert Lamond, Secretary and Agent. "A narrative of 
the rise and progress of emigration from the counties of 
Lanark and Kenfrew to the new settlements in Upper 
Canada, in government grant, comprising the proceedings of 
the Glasgow Committee, for directing the affairs and 
embarkation of the Societies ; with a map of the Townships, 
Designs for Cottages and a Plan of the Ship ' Earl of 
Buckinghamshire,' also interesting letters from the settle- 
ments." Glasgow, 1821. 8vo. 

This is a brief account of the emigration which took place in 
1820-21, from the western comities of Scotland to the Perth or 
Bathurst districts of Upper Canada. Subscriptions were obtained 
to assist those emigrating, and committees were formed, so that 
those leaving their homes might do so on conditions as favourable 
as possible. 

P. Stansbury. "A Pedestrian Tour of 2,300 miles in 
[North America, to the Lakes, the Canadas and the Xew 
England States, performed in the autumn of 1821 (with 
engravings)." Xew York, 1822. 12mo. 

The writer, a citizen of the United States, frequently introduces 
historical narrative, written from his own national standing -point. 
It is not a work to repay perusal. 

Kobert Fleming Gourlay. " General Introduction to Sta- 
tistical Account of L T pper Canada, compiled with a view to a 
grand system of Emigration, in connexion with a reform of 
the poor Laws." London, 1822. 8vo. 

"Statistical Account of L T pper Canada (with Maps)." 
2 vols. London, 1822. 



68 

It will be seen by this calendar that Mr. Gourlay commenced the 
publication of pamphlets as early as 1818. The above work did not 
appear until four years later. His name will be preserved on account 
of the cruel treatment he received ; he was imprisoned as an alien, 
and as a seditious person brought within the meaning of the statute 
of 1804. When it is remembered that Mr. Gourlay was a Scotch- 
man by birth, this painful proceeding would appear almost impos- 
sible. A writ of habeas corpus was granted, but bail was refused. 
Gourlay accordingly remained in Niagara jail, where he was treated 
with great harshness. He was finally tried for refusing to obey an 
order to leave the province. He was found guilty, and forced to 
take his departure ; by the way of the United States he reached 
England. The event took place in the administration of Sir 
Peregrine Maitland. The act, however, in no way affected his 
position as lieutenant-governor, for he remained in Canada until 
1828. How history will judge the proceeding is another matter. 

John McDonald. " Narrative of a voyage to Quebec, and 
journey from thence to New Lanark in Upper Canada, 
detailing the hardships and difficulties which an emigrant 
has to encounter, before and after his settlement ; with an 
account of the country as regards its climate, soil and the 
actual condition of its inhabitants." Glasgow, 1822. 8vo. 

The writer, as one may conceive by the title, does not give a 
cheerful view of an emigrant's life. He reached Prescott, where he 
remained three weeks, and then proceeded on his journey. He left 
the Saint Lawrence at Brockville, and reached Perth ; and started 
for New Lanark, fourteen miles distant. In his journey McDonald 
broke one of his ribs. Entertaining extremely religious views, he 
was frequently pained at the somewhat free life of the settlers. 
The circulation of many works of this character would not have 
been a great encouragement to emigration. 

John William Bannister. " Sketches of plans for settling 
in Upper Canada a portion of the Unemployed Labourers of 
Great Britain and Ireland." By a settler. London, 1821. 
8vo. 2nd Ed., 1822. 3rd Ed., 1826. 

The object to be attained in the view of the writer was the settle- 



69 

merit of the country by such as were indigent, in which the province 
should assist. One of his schemes was that the cost of the voyage 
to Canada should be borne by the mother country, that the province 
should construct what is now known as the Trent river canal, and 
that 6.000 immigrants, men, women and children, should be estab- 
lished in the neighbourhood of the works at government expense. 
The subject of the Indians of Upper Canada also received attention. 
Another work of this writer, '•'Emigration to Canada,*' 1831, 8vo. , 
is the same book with some additional remarks as to Xova Scotia. 

John M, Duncan. " Travels through part of the United 
States and Canada, 1818 and 1819." Glasgow, 1823. 2 vols., 
8vo. 

Mr. Duncan entered Canada from Black Rock, near Buffalo. 
After visiting the falls he descended the Saint Lawrence to 
Montreal and Quebec, and after a stay of two months, October and 
Xovember, he continued his journey in the United States. His 
observations are those of the tourist who feels that he has some- 
thing to say. To-day they have little interest. 

H. Wilson. " The "Wanderer in America, or Truth at 
Home : comprising a statement of observations and facts 
relative to the United States and Canada, North America : 
the result of an Extensive Personal Tour, and from Sources 
of Information the most Authentic; including soil, climate, 
manners, and customs, of civilized inhabitants and Indians, 
anecdotes, &c, of distinguished characters.'' 

" I will a round, unvarnished tale deliver.'' 
" nothing extenuate 

" Or set down aught in malice. 

Shakespeare. 
Thirsk, 1823. 6s. 

The volume contains a dedication to Lord Dalhousie, dated 
Quebec, 1821. Mr. Wilson landed at Xew York, on which city he 
makes his comments, and passed by Albany to Sackett's Harbour, 
Lake Ontario, where he took the steamboat for York [Toronto]. 
He extended his journey to Amherstburg, and revisiting York, he 



70 

descended the Saint Lawrence to Montreal. After a short stay in 
the city he returned by the way of Lake Champlain to the States. 

On leaving Canada, Mr. Wilson remarks, ' ' I cannot but wonder 
why England retains so unprofitable an appendage to her dominions, 
the only answer there can be made will bear an analogy with 
Montreal feeling, that is, Timber. One-half is boundless snow, 
and the other half literally a wilderness ; it is a colony maintained 
at enormous expence " [p. 62]. This strongly expressed view, with 
two strophes to the " Memory of Tecumseh," beginning 
" Tecumseh has no grave, but eagles dipt 
Their ravening beaks, and drank his stout heart's tide," 
formed Mr. Wilson's valedictory to Canada. 

There is much criticism on matters having little relation one 
with the other. It would be difficult to explain the author's 
reasons for the publication of the volume, except by the unfor- 
tunate universal failing of humanity : vanity. 

Eev. William Bell. " Hints to Emigrants ; in a series of 
letters from Upper Canada. Illustrated with a map and 
plans." Edinburgh, 1824. 236pp. 12mo. 

The author, a minister of the Church of Scotland, in 1812, in 
consequence of a petition to the Presbytery of Edinburgh, was 
appointed minister of Perth, north of Brockville, in the then 
district of Bathurst, and sent out with his family to Canada. He 
explains, that the book, which consists of a series of letters, was 
published to give information to emigrants, especially to those 
designing to reach Perth and the northern settlements at Lanark, 
lately commenced. The consequence is, that we meet more in this 
volume concerning this district, than in other similar publications 
of the date. As a rule, attention was generally given to the route 
by the Saint Lawrence to Toronto, and to those proceeding west 
and north of that place. Mr. Bell dwelt forcibly on the fact that 
many believed when they arrived at Quebec, their difficulties were 
over ; whereas, having landed, the expence of reaching their 
destination in other parts of the province was as great as the cost 
of the sea voyage. He describes naturally and pleasantly his 
passage to Quebec, and his steamboat journey to Montreal, which 
took some thirty-six hours. Mr. Bell tells us that some rollicking 



71 

" bucks," as he calls them, were on board, who caroused to a late 
hour, when one of them went round to the passengers' berths, 
awakening their occupants and asking them if they had seen some 
mythical personage. Those who conceived the joke were uproari- 
ously merry over it. Afterwards, they diversified the entertain- 
ment by dog-howls, cat-calls, and the singing of a hymn, learned, 
as the performer declared, at a methodist meeting. Everything 
must come to an end, so these individuals retired, not creating on 
Mr. Bell's mind a " favourable impression" "of the manners of 
Canadian gentlemen." 

Mr. Bell ascended the Saint Lawrence in a bateau. He left 
Lachine on the 12th of June, and reached Prescott on the 18th. A 
graphic account is given of his journey, extending over some pages 
[49-60] ; as a picture of the mode of travelling of the time, it could 
be profitably reprinted. 

From Prescott Mr. Bell crossed by waggon to Perth, passing by 
Brockville. He had his difficulties with his new parishioners ; on 
this point the volume must be consulted. He gives a carefully 
written description of Canada as he saw it, and he enters into much 
which then happened, never, however, forgetting that he is a 
minister of his church. Thus, he tells us [p. 297]. "Sir Peregrine 
Maitland, the present Lieutenant-Governor of the province of 
Upper Canada, is a decided friend to religion. Every Sabbath day, 
whether at home or abroad, he attends public worship twice if he 
has it in his power, and always conducts himself in the church with 
the greatest reverence and propriety. Would to God that all great 
men would imitate his example." His wife, the Lady Sarah 
Maitland, she was the daughter of the duke of Richmond, with 
whom Maitland, one of the handsomest men of his time, after 
Waterloo ran away with, is equally commended, "the Sunday 
schools . . in particular engaged her attention." A devotional 
spirit runs through the work, but it is restrained by sound sense. 
The work is in every respect readable, and it is particularly worthy 
the attention of the local investigator, for he will find many facts 
he can embody in his narrative. 

Messrs. Sewell, Stuart, Eobinson and Straclian. " Plan 
for a General Legislative L T nion of the British Provinces in 
Xorth America." London, 1824. 8vo. 



72 

[Attributed to Captain Blaney]. "An Excursion through 
the United States and Canada, during the years 1822-23. 
By an English gentleman." London, 1824. 8vo. 

We can read here the remarks of an educated gentleman, whose 
object in visiting the United States was to pass his time pleasantly, 
and to obtain information. Very few pages are given to Canada. 
He descended the Saint Lawrence from Niagara to Montreal, and 
returned to New York by Lake Champlain. The Saint Lawrence 
he described as by far ' ' the most beautiful river he had ever 
seen." His preference, however, was given to the State of New 
York, as he considered Canada to be without enterprise ; although 
he was one of the earliest writers who did justice to the climate of 
the province. That of Upper Canada he considered as particularly 
fine. On the 6th of June he found the heat of the sun at Niagara 
almost insupportable, and on that day he saw two hundred hum- 
ming birds on the Canadian side of the river. 

The volume, although pleasantly written, is of no value for 
reference. 

Adam Hodgson. "Letters from North America, written 
during a Tour in the United States and Canada." London, 
1824. 2 vols., 8vo. 

These volumes are principally confined to the journey in the 
United States. In 1822 a flying visit was made to Montreal and 
Quebec. Mr. Hodgson left Canada by Lake Champlain. His visit 
included only a few days at the end of August and the commence- 
ment of September. 

Lieut. J. C. Morgan, Eoyal Marines. "The Emigrant's 
Note Book and Guide ; with Eecollections of Upper and 
Lower Canada during the late War." London, 1824. 12mo. 

Mr. Morgan was a lieutenant in the second battalion of the Royal 
Marines, and served in the war. He was then on half-pay. He 
writes from the standing-point of a British officer with regard to 
Canada. The volume contains a view of the Chaudiere Falls, near 
Quebec, drawn on stone by Harding. 

Edward Allen Talbot. "Five years' residence in the 



73 

Canadas, including a Tour through part of the United States 
of America in the year 1823." London, 1824. 2 vols., 8vo. 
Translated by M. Eries. Paris, 1825. 3 vols., 8vo. 

This Edward Talbot must not be confounded with the Hon. 
Thomas Talbot, of the 24th regiment, who came to Upper Canada 
in 1790 as private secretary to Governor Simcoe, the founder of the 
Talbot settlement, and who died in February, 1853. Mr. Talbot's 
work is a record of his experience, and is still a readable book. 
After a general examination of the province with his family, he 
finally established himself in the Talbot district. He gives much 
general information on many points. He observed with care the 
habits of the wild animals and birds of the country, and collected 
many facts concerning them, when to do so was more easy of attain- 
ment than at present. He not only gave his attention to the beasts, 
birds and insects, but also correctly described the forest, and 
fruit-bearing trees, with the vegetables which could be produced. 
His observations extend to the condition of morality and religion. 
At the same time, he endeavours to furnish a picture of the social 
state of Canada embracing every condition ; he likewise comments 
upon the political institutions and the courts of law. Indeed, 
it may be said that there is scarcely a subject which he has left 
untouched ; he always leads to the belief that he has written care- 
fully and conscientiously. 

"A short sketch of the Province of Upper Canada, for the 
information of the labouring poor throughout England, &c, 
&c. By Henry John Boulton, &c, &c, His Majesty's 
vSolicitor-General for the Province of Upper Canada." 
London, 1826. 12 mo. 

This work, which is a pamphlet in favour of emigration, is only 
included in this list owing to Mr. Boulton having been at this date 
Solicitor-General of Upper Canada. His object in publishing the 
volume was, as he puts it, "to afford information to the lower 
classes." It calls for no especial remark. 

Bishop Strachan. " Remarks on emigration from the 
United Kingdom. By John Strachan, D.D., Archdeacon of 
York, Upper Canada : addressed to Robert "W llmot Horton, 



74 

Esq., M.P., Chairman of the Select Committee of Emigration 
in the last Parliament." London, 1827. 8vo. 

The author of this work is best remembered as Bishop of Toronto, 
to which dignity he was nominated in 1839. The work is in favour 
of emigration to Canada, as extending relief to the redundant 
population of the mother country ; on the ground that the colonies 
offered " good neighbourhood, health, independence and even 
opulence." After describing Upper and Lower Canada, the bishop 
sets forth his scheme of government emigration, viz. : that 750,000 
persons should be sent at the expense of the state ; men, women 
and children, 150,000 families. From Ireland, 100,000 ; England, 
40,000 ; Scotland, 10,000 ; at the rate of 15,000 families annually. 
The cost annually would be one million and a half pounds, to be 
divided, one million as the charge of Ireland, and half a million of 
England and Scotland ; the money to be borrowed and to be repaid 
by a rate on land and houses ; after the seventh year of settlement 
the emigrants to pay an assessment towards repayment of the 
expenditure. The author's calculation was that at the end of 
seventeen years the debt would be extinguished. It was one of the 
many schemes proposed, somewhat discussed, and soon to be for- 
gotten. In the "Memoir" of Bishop Strachan [Bishop Bethune ; 
Rowsell, Toronto, 1870], p. 117, a letter, 29th January, 1827, is 
given, in which the bishop relates, that he has written a pamphlet 
on "Emigration" of nearly 100 pages, and " an appeal of 24 pages 
in favour of our College ;" also that he had nearly finished an 
abridgement of the Emigration Report of the Committee of the 
House of Commons, undertaken at the request of the under- secre- 
tary for the colonies, Mr. Wilmot Horton. The reward he hoped 
for, was the charter of the university. 

Thomas Johnston. " Travels through Lower Canada, 
interspersed with Canadian tales and anecdotes, and inter- 
esting information to intending emigrants." Edinburgh, 
1827. 12mo. 

I have not seen this book. 

Hon. Frederick Fitzgerald De Koos, Lieut. E.X. " Per- 
sonal Narrative of Travels in the United States and Canada 



75 

in 1826, with remarks on the present state of the American 
Navy (with plates)." 1827. 8vo. 

Lieutenant de Roos arrived at Quebec in H.M.S. "Jupiter." He- 
ascended the Saint Lawrence to Niagara, where, after passing some 
pleasant hours, he returned to his starting point. His visit to the 
United States led him to form the opinion that the naval strength 
of the country had been exaggerated. 

A. C. Buchanan, Emigration Agent, Quebec. "Emigra- 
tion practically considered, with detailed directions to Emi- 
grants proceeding to British North America." London, 
1828. 8vo. 

A second edition was brought out in 1834. Mr. Buchanan held 
the position of Emigration Agent for many years, until his death 
in 1869. 

P. Einan. "Journal of a voyage to Quebec in the year 
1825, with recollections of Canada during the late American 
War in the years 1812, 1813." Newry, 1828. 12mo. 

The writer left Newry in Ireland for Quebec. The first hundred 
pages, one-fourth of the volume, are devoted to the account of his 
voyage. The country is described as he saw it, but there is nothing 
in this respect to invite reference to the book. The second part 
contains the writer's experience in 1812, 1813. He was with his. 
father, an officer of a regiment, apparently the 8th, and was 
present on the 27th of April, 1813, when Toronto was burned by 
the United States troops. Finan was an eye-witness of the fact. 
He relates an incident I do not remember to have seen elsewhere, 
(pp. 286, 287). " While this part of our force was contending with 
the enemy in the woods, an unfortunate accident occurred in the- 
battery opposite to the fleet, which proved a death-blow to the 
little hope that might have been entertained of a successful issue to 
the proceedings of the day. A gun was aimed at one of the vessels „ 
and the officers, desirous of seeing if the ball would take effect, 
ascended the bastion : in the meantime, the artillery -man, waiting 
for the word of command to fire, held the match behind him, as is 
usual under such circumstances ; and the travelling magazine, a. 



76 

large wooden chest, containing cartridges for the great guns, being 
open just at his back, he unfortunately put the match into it, and 
the consequence, as may be supposed, was dreadful indeed ! Every 
man in the battery was blown into the air, and the dissection of the 
greater part of their bodies was inconceivably shocking ! The 
officers were thrown from the bastion by the shock, but escaped 
with a few bruises : the cannons were dismounted, and, conse- 
quently, the battery was rendered completely useless. 

I was standing at the gate of the garrison when the poor soldiers 
who escaped the explosion with a little life remaining were brought 
into the hospital, and a more afflicting sight could scarcely be wit- 
nessed. Their faces were completely black, resembling those of the 
blackest Africans ; their hair frizzled like theirs, and their clothes 
scorched and emitting an effluvia so strong as to be perceived long 
before they reached one. One man in particular presented an awful 
spectacle : he was brought in a wheelbarrow, and from his appearance 
I should be inclined to suppose that almost every bone in his body was 
broken ; he was lying in a powerless heap, shaking about with 
every motion of the barrow, from which his legs hung dangling 
down, as if only connected with his body by the skin, while his 
cries and groans were of the most heart-rending description." 

He also describes the shooting of a deserter, at which he was 
present. 

John Mactaggart. " Three years in Canada : an account 
of the actual state of the country in 1826-7-8, compre- 
hending its resources, productions, improvements and capa- 
bilities ; and including Sketches of the state of society, 
advice to Emigrants, &c." London, 1829. 2 vols., 8vo. 

Mr. John Mactaggart was selected by the celebrated engineer 
Rennie, when requested by the British government to recommend a 
clerk of the works for the Rideau Canal. In 1828 he returned to 
England, suffering from "the malaria of the swampy wastes," when 
he published his reminiscences in two volumes. He gives much 
information concerning this line of navigation. 

Hugh Murray, F.R.S.E. "Historical account of Discov- 
eries and Travels in North America ; including the United 
States, Canada, the Shores of the Polar Sea, and the Voyages 



77 

in search of a Xorth-TTest Passage ; with Observations on 
Emigration ; illustrated by a Map of Xorth America." 
London, 1829. 2 vols., 8vo. 

The author has brought together much information on the subject 
of the early discoveries on the American continent. He includes 
what he could learn regarding Canada. The book shews industry 
and research. 

Captain Basil Hall. " Travels in North America in the 
years 1827 and 1828." Edinburgh, 1829. 3 vols., 8vo. 

Captain Hall crossed into Canada from Xiagara, visited the 
Grand River, the Otonabee, and stopping at several towns in his 
descent of the Saint Lawrence, finally reached Montreal and 
Quebec. His remarks are those of a well educated man of the 
world. At the time of its publication the book attracted attention ; 
little is to be learned by reference to it sixty-five years after it was 
written. 

Captain Basil Hall. "Forty Etchings from Sketches 
made with the Camera-Lucida in Xorth America in 1827 
and 1829." Edinburg, 1829. 

The volume contains ten views of Canada : Xiagara, Peter- 
borough, the Saint Lawrence, &c, &c. 

"A political and historical account of Lower Canada ; 
with remarks on the present situation of the people as 
regards their manners, character, religion." By a " Cana- 
dian." London, 1830. 8vo. 

The work, originally written in French, was translated for publi- 
cation in London, and is attributed to Dr. Pierre Salles de la 
Terriere. It was professedly in answer to a book published in 
Montreal, under the title of "Political Annals of Lower Canada, 
being a review of the Political and Legislative history of that 
province." By a British settler. 

The writer gives a brief history of the province from his point of 
view to the date at which he wrote. He dwelt upon the misunder- 
standing which had long existed between the Canadian Government 



78 

and the House of Assembly, which had increased in intensity under 
the governorship of Lord Dalhousie. The remedy proposed by him 
was the abolition of the Legislative Council. 

Several important public documents are included in the appendix, 
some of which are only imperfectly known. 

William Cattermole. "The advantages of Emigration to 
Canada, being the substance of Two Lectures delivered at 
the Town-hall, Colchester, and the Mechanics' Institution, 
Ipswich." London, May, 1831. 12mo. 

The object of this volume was to advocate emigration to Canada in 
preference to the United States. It describes the province, with 
its geography, climate, soil and productions ; likewise giving an 
account of the principal towns. A history of the Canada Company 
also is added. The book contained information of value when 
published, which, doubtless, had its good effect on those hesitating 
as to their future career. At this date it furnishes the modern 
writer some important facts, to aid in shewing the condition of the 
province when Mr. Cattermole wrote. 

Josiah Conder. " United States and Canada," London, 
1831. 12mo. 

Only a slight space is allotted to Canada. What is there said is 
•evidently taken from works previously published. 

Koss Cox. "Adventures on the Columbia Eiver, including 
the Narrative of a Eesidence of six years on the western side 
•of the Eocky Mountains, among various Tribes of Indians 
hitherto unknown, together with a journey across the Ameri- 
can Continent." London, 1831. 2 vols., 8vo. New York, 
1832. 

Mr. Cox was one of the party who proceeded to Astoria with Mr. 
Astor. On the retirement of the Pacific Fur Company he joined the 
new association. He remained in the service until 1817, when he 
returned by an overland journey to Montreal, which he reached in 
.September. 

Martin Doyle. " Hints on Emigration to Upper Canada, 



79 

especially addressed to the middle and lower classes in Great 
Britain and Ireland." Dublin, London, Edinburg, 1831. 

Mr. Doyle was a voluminous writer on agricultural subjects. He 
was the author of a cyclopaedia of practical husbandry and rural 
affairs, published in 1829 [2nd Ed. enlarged in 1851]. He did much 
to improve the condition of the labouring classes in Ireland, and 
urged in various publications and through the daily press the 
importance of what he called " cottage farming." The above work 
advocates emigration, to use his own words, as "a prudent remedy" 
for a large class of the population. 

George Henry Hume. " Canada as it is, comprising details 
relating to the Domestic Policy, Commerce and Agriculture 
of the Upper and Lower Provinces, comprising matter of 
general information and interest, especially intended for the 
use of settlers and emigrants," New York, 1832. 12mo. 

Although this work bears the imprint of a New York publisher 
[Stodart, Court-land Street], and has no reference to Canada on the 
title page, there is internal evidence that it was written in the 
province, probably in Upper Canada. It is not mentioned either 
in Lowndes or Allibone. It is put together with some care from the 
standing -point of desiring to see a large emigration directed to 
Canada, so that the province might become prosperous and wealthy. 
In the preface we meet the suggestive sentence that a " neighboring 
power has already cast a jealous eye on this northern territory." 
It is one of the best books of the class, and contains much sound 
information. The concluding pages are given to a description of 
the birds. While there is an absence of political partisanship, many 
of the events of the time are narrated, and the prominent towns 
are described with some fullness. The volume also furnishes a more 
extended account of the valley of the Ottawa than is generally found 
at that date. This unpretending book will repay reference to it, 
especially on the subject of the tillage of the land, to which the 
writer had evidently given careful attention. 

Robert M/udie. " The Emigrant's Pocket Companion ; 
containing : what emigration is, who should be emigrants, 
where emigrants should go ; a description of British !N"orth 



80 

America, especially the Canadas, and full instructions to 
intending emigrants." London, 1832. 

Mr. Mudie commences at the starting point by stating what 
emigration is, and who should be emigrants. He saw that a British 
subject was an alien in the United States, and he felt ground of 
objection against Western and Southern Africa, and Australia. 
His preference was declared for British North America. He 
describes in a few pages Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Bruns- 
wick and Upper and Lower Canada. He gathered together much 
that was new, and gave some excellent advice. Sixty years ago there 
was requirement for this special information. Even to-day its 
constant dissemination is considered necessary, and has become a 
matter of government care. The object of the writer, as he 
expresses it, was " to clear away some of the mist that has been 
suffered to gather, or which has probably in some cases been 
intuitively gathered around the question of emigration." 

Andrew Picken. " The Canadas as they at present com- 
mend themselves to the enterprise of Emigrants, Colonists 
and Capitalists, comprehending a variety of Topographical 
Reports concerning the quality of the land, &c, in different 
Districts ; and the fullest general information : compiled and 
condensed from original documents furnished by John Gait, 
Esquire, and other authentic sources; with a map." London, 
Wilson, 1832. 1 vol,, 8vo. 

This work is apparently a compilation in the inteiest of the 
American Land Company and the Canada Land Company to 
encourage emigration. Several official documents are published, 
with many papers and reports, of value for reference at the time. 
The book contains much local information, useful to a class of 
writers occupied in the preservation of the history of certain 
districts. 

Joseph Pickering, late of Penny Stratford, Berks., and 
now of Canada. " Inquiries of an Emigrant ; being the 
narrative of an English farmer from the year 1824 to 1830, 
during which he traversed the United States and Canada, 



81 

with a view to settle as an Emigrant, containing observations 
on the manners, soil, climate and husbandry of the Americans; 
estimates of outfit, charges of voyage and travelling 
expenses." London, 1832. Small 8vo. 

The writer was engaged as an overseer on Col. Talbot's farm. 
He remained in this position for some time, and visited the province 
with the view of obtaining the information which he embodied in 
the volume. 

John M'Gregor. "British America." 2 vols., 8vo. 
Edinburgh and London, 1832. 

The first volume refers to Newfoundland, Prince Edward island, 
and the Maritime Provinces. Book VII. of the second volume 
relates to Lower Canada. Book VIII. to Upper Canada. 

A history of British America is given as it was written sixty 
years ago, being brought down to date to the governorship of Lord 
Aylmer. The book is a careful compendium of all that had 
appeared to that time. The volume therefore narrates many events 
and incidents of a varied character, accompanied by much local 
description, and throughout is pleasant reading. Mr. M'Gregor 
can, however, scarcely be considered an authority. He covers a 
great deal of ground, and furnishes his readers with a great many 
facts, undoubtedly carefully gathered, likewise with many statis- 
tical notes. For general information few books were at the date 
more useful, for the author was industrious and intelligent. A 
careful inquirer, nevertheless, in referring to these volumes will 
find it necessary to consult original authorities on much which 
is stated in them. 

" The Canadas as they now are, comprehending a view of 
their climate, rivers, lakes, canals, government, laws, taxes, 
towns, trade, &c, with a description of the soil and advan- 
tages or disadvantages of every township in the province," 
&c, &c. By a late resident. London, 1833. 

It is claimed that this book is written concisely, with the view of 
giving information to the emigrant, and it aspires to no higher 
pretension than simply and naturally to narrate the author's views 

F 



82 

of the country. At the time much which is related was new to 
many in the old country ; perhaps in some quarters there is no great 
improvement in this respect. But avowedly written to aid emigra- 
tion at that date, the volume presupposes an entire want of know- 
ledge on the part of his readers. 

Francis A. Evans. " The Emigrants' Directory and Guide 
to obtain lands and effect a settlement in the Canadas." 
1833. 12mo. 

Mr. Evans came to Canada in 1813, and obtained some land near 
Drummondville, on the Saint Francis River, in the Eastern Town- 
ships. In 1824 he was appointed government land agent. The 
townships obtained representation in the legislature of 1829. [11th 
March]. On the bill being sanctioned at home, eight members 
were returned without waiting for the general election, and the 
parliament which met on the 22nd January, 1830, for the first 
time received two members each for Mississquoi, Sherbrooke and 
Stanstead, and one member each for Shefforcl and Drummoncl, 
making a total of eight members, Mr. Evans took his seat as a 
member on this occasion. It is melancholy to record, that between 
the date when the " advertisement " was written in 1832, and the 
appearance of the volume in 1833, Mr. Evans died from cholera, 
after a few hours' illness. 

The work contains much information regarding the early settle- 
ment of the Eastern Townships. We are made to feel that the 
author, after his own observation, formed the opinions which he 
sets forth with much good sense, 

William Gourlay. " A guide to the Canadas, containing 
useful and practical information for those who propose 
emigrating to the British possessions in North America." 
By William Gourlay, late merchant in Ayr, who has just 
returned from the Canadas, where he has resided for a 
number of years. Ayr, 1833. Small 8vo. 

Mr. William Gourlay must not be confounded with Mr. Robert 
Fleming Gourlay, whose imprisonment forms so painful a passage 
in the political history of the country. The author tells us that 
though bred a farmer he was induced to become a mechanic, and 



83 

eventually started as an ironmonger, which business he followed for 
twenty years. In consequence of unfortunate speculations he tried 
his fortunes in Canada, where he remained for some years, when, 
owing to family affairs, he returned to his native place. 

The work is not without information, and is sensibly written. 
Much is said in regard to prices and the cost of living. 

Stephen Davis. "Notes of a tour in America in 1832 and 
1833." By Stephen Davis, Collecting Agent of the Baptist 
Society for Ireland. Edinburgh, 1833. 12rno. 

Mr. Davis landed in New York, and in his tour was induced to 
visit Montreal by lake Champlain. During the time he was in the 
city, the Masonic Hall, or British American Hotel, in St. Paul 
Street, was burnt, in April, 1833. He was preaching when the fire 
became visible to those in the church ; ' ' not more than one or two 
individuals left the place until the service was concluded." He 
describes the contrast in the United States. He says : " Upon one 
occasion, though the fire was at a considerable distance, the place 
became so deserted, and the agitation of those who lingered so 
manifest, that I was obliged to break off the discourse entirely." 
From Montreal Mr. Davis proceeded to Rochester. He also visited 
Niagara. 

T. Sockett. "A letter to a member of parliament, con- 
taining a statement of the method pursued by the Petworth 
Committee, on sending out emigrants to Upper Canada, in 
the years 1832 and 1833, and a plan upon which the sums 
required for defraying the expence of emigration may be 
raised.' 5 London, 1833. Large 8vo. 

This is an account of the system adopted in sending out emigrants 
from the neighbourhood of Petworth in 1832. Lord Egremont 
having stated his willingness to afford liberal assistance to artisans 
and labourers living on his estate and in the neighbourhood 
desirous of emigrating, a Committee was formed to carry out the 
purpose. For the protection of the emigrants, an agent was 
engaged, whose duty it was to conduct the party to Toronto, and to 
have regard to their destination and well-being. At Toronto they 
were seen by the Lieut. -Governor, and forwarded to the localities 



84 

assigned them, and care was taken, as far as possible, to provide 
for the future. 

Lord Egremont paid the whole passage-money for those leaving 
Petworth and the four adjoining parishes. The outfit was supplied 
from the poor rate. The arrangement for the comfort and protec- 
tion of the passengers was in the highest degree satisfactory. 
Several letters are appended, recording the well-doing of the 
writers. 

" Letters from Sussex Emigrants who sailed from Ports- 
mouth in April, 1832, on board the ships 'Lord Melville' 
and l Eveline,' for Upper Canada," &c, &c. 8vo. 1833. 

These letters even now can be read with interest, but at the date 
of their publication they must have exercised some influence on 
those struggling in difficulty, who by emigration were desirous of 
bettering their fortunes. Much miscellaneous information is added 
for the use of those entertaining the intention. 

William Lyon Mackenzie. " Sketches of Canada and the 
United States." London, 1833. 8vo. 

The book is described by Mr. Lindsey as "treating of a great 
variety of subjects, having no connection and without arrange- 
ment." It really consists of notes taken during travels in Canada 
and the United States. There is, however, "an agreeable seasoning 
of racy and remarkable anecdotes." 

Captain J. E. Alexander, 42nd Royal Highlanders. 
" Transatlantic Sketches, comprising visits to the most inter- 
esting scenes in North and South America and the West 
Indies, with Notes on Negro Slavery and Canadian Emigra- 
tion." 2 vols. London, 1833. Philadelphia, 1833. 8vo. 

Captain, afterwards Sir, James Alexander in his Canadian travels 
crossed the Niagara River, and landed at Chippewa. He wandered 
some days about Niagara Falls, which he describes. At York 
(Toronto) he met Sir John Colborne, and at his invitation was 
present at the river Credit, when Colonel Givings gave the annual 
presents to the Mississaga Indians. At Kingston he made inquiries 
as to the Rideau Canal. He descended the Saint Lawrence, and, 



85 

sleeping a night at the Cascades, ascended the Ottawa to Bytown. 
With Colonel By, Captain Alexander followed the Bideau to Jones' 
Falls. Although a description is given of the further route of this 
navigation, it does not appear that the traveller went beyond this 
point. Captain Alexander visited Montreal and Quebec, and relates 
some pleasant recollections of the personnel of that day. Even to 
recording the absurd speech of the then Governor-General, Lord 
Aylmer : "As I set about my daily task of duty, it teaches me to 
ask myself this question, ' What can I do this day to promote the 
happiness and prosperity of Canada ! ' " 

Eev. Isaac Fidler. " Observations on Professions, Litera- 
ture, Manners and Emigration in the United States and 
Canada, made during a residence in 1832." London, 1833. 
12mo. Eeprinted, Xew York, 1833. 18mo. 

The author left England in 1S31 for the United States. Finally, 
he determined to seek his fortunes in Canada. In 1833 he pub- 
lished his volume in London. Crossing to Xiagara he proceeded 
thence to Quebec, to obtain a position in the Colonial Church. He 
there saw Bishop Stewart, who offered to appoint him to Xew- 
market, his labours extending to Penetanguishene. There is an 
expression of the Bishop's worthy of record. Fidler did not 
consider himself "equal to such journeys as the mission exacted." 
"I myself," replied his lordship, "have performed much greater 
journeys than the one proposed to you, on foot and unattended. I 
was a missionary for thirty-five years, at a period when the country 
was in a less civilized state, and when greater self-denial than is 
required of you was unavoidably imposed on the preachers of the 
gospel. There is no part of my large diocese which I have not 
visited and travelled on foot, with a Bible my sole companion and 
only solace. What, therefore, is proferred for your acceptance is 
not to be compared in labours and privations to what has been 
experienced before you. n Mr. Fidler was offered the mission at 
Thornhill, 14 miles from Toronto, which he accepted ; he shortly 
returned to England. Mr. Fidler expresses the views he formed 
when in Canada : as might be expected, allusions to the position 
of a clergyman are frequently to be met. 

I. Finch. " Travels in the Linked States of America and 



86 

Canada, containing some account of their scientific institu- 
tions, &c, &c." London, 1833. 8vo. 

Only a few pages of this work are given to Canada. They are 
without importance. 

T. W. Magrath. " Authentic letters from Upper Canada, 
with an account of Canadian Field Sports." The Etchings 
by Samuel Lover. Edited by the Eev. T. Kadcliff. Dublin, 
1833. 12mo. 

This work brings to view the experience of a settler in 1831, with 
cost of establishment in Canada. It consists of letters written 
familiarly by the author to a friend in Ireland. Much is said of the 
life of the sportsmen of the date. 

Lieut. E. T. Coke. "A Subaltern's Furlough ; descriptive 
Scenes in various parts of the L T nitecl States, Upper and 
Lower Canada, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, during the 
summer and autumn of 1832." Maps and Illustrations. 
London, 1833. New York, 1833. 12 mo. 

The author visited the United States, and crossed to Canada from 
Black Rock. He descended the Saint Lawrence, and from Quebec 
passed over the Temiscouata Portage to reach the Saint John, 
which he followed to Fredericton. 

On the 6th of September, with two guides, Mr. Coke left Kamou- 
raska. Following the Saint Lawrence for nine miles, the small 
party turned southward and lost sight of the great river. Several 
log huts were seen on the route ; on the first night the travellers 
were refused admission for a night's rest. The last application for 
shelter was, however, successful, and the old couple who received 
them could with difficulty, next morning, be persuaded to accept any 
acknowledgment of their hospitality. Here the road in its good 
sense ceased ; there was only a rough trail to follow. From time to 
time the travellers had to cut their way through windfalls, and the 
cart often sunk to the axle in the soft places. They were greatly 
troubled with flies. The following night they reached the farm of 
Mr. Frazer, described as the Seigneur of Riviere clu Loup, who gave 
them house-room and furnished them with canoes. From the 



87 

Temiscouata lake they descended the Madawaska river, portaging 
to escape the falls, and reached the settlement of Madawaska at the 
confluence of the Saint John, which they descended to Fredericton. 
"What is specially to be remarked in this volume is the admirable 
drawing of Mr. Coke. Few better views of the Falls have ever been 
given, certainly not in a book of this character. 

"Statistical Sketches of Upper Canada." By a Back- 
woodsman. London, 3rd Ed., 1833. 12mo. 

This work contains much good advice, which the lately arrived 
emigrant of modern times could profitably consider. There is a 
great deal of sound sense in the recommendations made, evidently 
the result of experience, for the book is dated from Goderich, lake 
Huron. The author's remarks on field sports may also be profit- 
ably read by all fond of that phase of life. Among other things, 
he tells us, " in hunting the bear, take all the curs in the village 
along with you. Game dogs are useless for this purpose, for, unless 
properly trained, they fly at the throat, and get torn to pieces or 
hugged to death for their pains. The curs yelp after him, bite his 
rump and make him tree, where he can be shot." 

The author was the well-known Dr. William Dunlop, celebrated 
in Canadian life as "The Tiger." See Gait's Autobiography, 
vol. II., chap. 9, note. 

Adam Fergusson. " Practical Xotes made during a tour in 
Canada and a portion of the United States in 1831, to which 
are added Xotes made during a second visit ro Canada in 
1833." Edinburgh, 2nd ed., 183-1. 8vo. 

Mr. Fergusson was born at Woodhill, Perthshire, in 1782, of 
which county he was a magistrate and Deputy Lieutenant. He was 
successively a member of the Legislative Council of Tapper Canada, 
and, after the Union of the Provinces, of the Legislative Council of 
Canada. He died in 1842. 

Mr. Fergusson entered Canada by Lake Champlain. He visited 
Quebec, Montreal, the Falls, and proceeded to York [Toronto]. He 
met in his travels a Mr. Forsyth, who, on being asked if his family 
was numerous, "Why," said he " sir, I don't know what you call 
numerous. Fve raised nineteen : ten by my first wife, and nine by 



88 

my second. Mr. Fergusson relates the story of Morgan having been 
forced over the Falls in 1826 by the Free-Masons as if he believed 
it. He visited Guelph, Hamilton, and St. Catharines'. What gives 
his book value is his practical advice to emigrants. 

"The United States and Canada in 1832, 1833, and 
1834." By C. D. Arfewedson. London, 1834. 2 vols. 
8vo. 

Only a few unimportant pages of this book apply to Canada. 

Tr. Bromine. "Reisen durch die Yereinigten Staaten 
und Ober Canada." Baltimore, 1834. 3 vols., 8vo. 

I have not been able to meet these volumes. 

George K. Young. " The British North American Colo- 
nies. Letters to the Bight Hon. E. G. Stanley, M.P., 
upon the existing Treaties with France and America, as 
regard 'Their Bights of Fishery' upon the Coasts of Nova 
Scotia, Labrador and Newfoundland ; the violations of these 
Treaties by the subjects of both powers, and their effect 
upon the commerce, equally of the Mother Country and the 
Colonies, &c." London, 1834. pp. 193. 8vo. Map. 

" The History, Principles and Prospects of the Bank of 
British North America and of the Colonial Bank ; with an 
Enquiry into Colonial Exchanges and expediency of intro- 
ducing British Sterling and British Coin, in preference to 
the dollar as the money of account and currency of the 
North American Colonies." Do. 1838. 8vo. 

" On the Escheat Question in Prince Edward's Island : 
Agitation and Remedies." Do. 1838. 

"The Canadian Question." Do. 1839. 

Letters on " Responsible Government," and an Union of 
the Colonies of British North America, to the Right Hon. 
John Russell, Halifax. 1840. 

I mention Mr. Young's works owing to the number which bear 



89 

his name. They will, however, be more properly described with the 
pamphlets of the time, than be admitted into this classification. 

"Canada in the years 1832, 1833, and 1834, containing 
important information and instructions to persons intending 
to emigrate thither in 1835." By an Ex-settler, who resided 
chiefly "in the bush" for the last two years. Dublin, 1835. 

This work is what its name suggests it would be. 

" Journal of an excursion to the United States and Canada 
in the year 1834 ; with hints to emigrants ; and a fair and 
impartial exposition of the advantages and disadvantages 
attending emigration b}^ a citizen of Edinburgh." Edinburgh, 
1835. 16mo. 

The author visited the United States on a tour of pleasure. 
Landing at Xew York, he came by steamboat to Albany, by canal 
boat to Rome, and by stage to Oswego, where he took the steamboat 
for Toronto, whence he proceeded to Xiagara. He pleasantly 
records his impressions, gathering some anecdotes as he passed 
onwards. He was not particularly struck with Toronto or Canada. 
The former he pronounced to be "as dull a hole as I have been in," 
" with a number of half -pay officers with their noses in red uniform." 
He further considered it " rather a dissipated place,"' " wanting that 
spirit of enterprise you see in the States," the inhabitants reckoning 
' ' the importation of emigrants which takes place every spring as 
their harvest ; and I guess," he adds, "they do with them as the 
Yankee young ladies do with their live geese— they pluck the feathers 
off them every spring." All that can be looked for from the pages 
of this work is an occasional good laugh. The little said of emigra- 
tion is discouraging. 

Charles Joseph Latrobe. " The Eambler in Xorth 
America." London, 1835. 2 vols. 12mo. 

The author ascended the Kennebec from Maine, and by this route 
reached Quebec. He subsequently visited Three Rivers and Mont- 
real. The volume does not call for any special remark. 

Patrick Shireff. " Tour through Xorth America, with a 



90 

Comprehensive View of the Canadas and the United States 
as adapted for Agricultural Emigration." 1835. 8vo. 

Mr. Shireff describes himself as a farmer from East Lothian, and 
his object in visiting the country was to examine its capability of 
development for agricultural purposes. He visited the Niagara 
district, York, lake Simcoe, the bay of Quinte, and descended to 
Montreal. Generally he passed over the whole of the province then 
accessible to the ordinary traveller. Mr. Shireff expresses his dis- 
appointment at what he saw in Canada in comparison with the 
prosperity he had observed in the United States : an opinion he 
deliberately repeats at the close of the volume. 

Kichard Weston. "A Visit to the United States and 
Canada, 1833; with the view of settling in America. 
Including a voyage to and from New York." Edinburgh, 
1836. pp. 312. 12mo. 

Mr. Weston took the precaution on the title page to inform the 
public that he was a bookseller, " 37 Lothian St., Edinburg." His 
intention on leaving Scotland was to settle in the United States ; he, 
however, became depressed by all he saw. He paid a passing visit 
to Canada, and a few pages record the discontent felt by him. On 
joining a relative near lake Champlain, he decided to return home. 
His book is written with the avowed design of cautioning those pro- 
posing to emigrate against the exaggerated statements published 
concerning America. 

"A narrative of the affair of Queenston in the war of 
1812, with a review of the strictures of that event, in a book 
entitled < Notices of the War of 1812.'" New York, 1836. 

8vo. 

The writer of this volume acted as aide-de-camp to General 
Stephen Van Rensselaer, in command of the United States forces in 
1812 at the battle of Queenston Heights, and he writes in vindicating 
his chief, in answer to the book of General Ormsbury. The appen- 
dix contains many letters which were exchanged between the United 
States General and Sir Isaac Brock and General Sheaffe. This work 
commands attention from any writer professing to give a narrative 



91 

of the action in which the gallant Brock fell, and of the subsequent 
campaign. 

James Inches. " Letters on Emigration to Canada, 
addressed to the Very Bev. Principal Baird." Second edition. 
Perth, 1836. 12mo. 

This book was avowedly written to discourage emigration, and 
was published to expose the so-called errors of writers who had 
favourably described Canada as a field for the industrious effort of 
all who in the mother country were suffering from adverse circum- 
stances. With this view, it undertook to describe the laborious, 
profitless life of the emigrant. Emigration, Mr. Inches regarded 
as an experiment by no means likely to succeed. Wheat raised in 
Canada, he conceived, would never bring more than the expense of 
freight and charges. The only place of importance he looked upon 
with favour was Saint John, Xew Brunswick. 

The problem of changing the scene of life by emigration in order 
to better one's condition, to turn away from ill fortune to brighter 
days, solum vertere, as Cicero says, seemed beyond his comprehen- 
sion. Neither could he penetrate the liberty of thought gained in 
the free air breathed in the forest, untainted by the oft-recurring 
extravagances of civilization. If there be somewhat rough comfort 
in the log hut, there is, however, the greatest of human blessings, 
independence ; independence of spirit and a freedom from inter- 
course with that petty curse of life, the cad, male and female. We 
have not there to bear 

" the whips and scorns of time, 
The oppressor's wrong, the proud man's contumely, 
The pangs of despised love, the law's delay 
The insolence of office, and the spurns 
That patient merit of the unworthy takes. " 
Xo man ever sought communion with nature in vain. Those who 
live in her contemplation, trusting to their good right arm, never 
fail to find the sustenance of honesty, and, if true to themselves, 
obtain their certain reward ; peace of mind, self-respect, health, 
vigour, and that by which the battle of life is won, endurance. 
But this philosophy did not suggest itself to Mr. Inches. 

Dr. Thomas Eolph, Ancaster Gore District, Dundas, U.C. 



92 

" A brief account, together with observations made during 
a visit in the West Indies, and a tour through the United 
States of America in parts of the years 1832-3, together 
with a statistical account of Upper Canada." G. Wey worth 
Hackslaff, Printer, 1836. 8vo. 

The writer sailed from Gravesend, in November, 1832, to Bar- 
badoes, where he continued his journey to the United States. He 
arrived in Canada, crossing from Black Rock on the 1st June. His 
work is a general description of the places in Upper Canada he 
visited, with many incidental statistical letters. 

Mrs. Trail. " The backwoods of Canada : being letters 
from the wife of an emigrant officer." London, 1836. 

Mrs. Trail's books are well known. In spite of the hardship and 
the privation she suffered, she always kept a good heart, looked upon 
the bright side of life, and conceived a love for Canada she never 
lost. One sentence is characteristic of her philosophy : " The very 
stumps that appeared so odious, through long custom seem to lose 
some of their hideousness ; the eye becomes familiarized even with 
objects the most displeasing, till they cease to be observed. Some 
century hence how different will this spot appear ! " 

Rev. Adolphus Egerton Eyerson, D.D. "The Affairs of 
the Canadas in a series of Letters to the London Times. By 
a Canadian." London, Eng., 1837. pp. 75. 

This work, published anonymously, immediately attracted atten- 
tion. The consequence was that inquiry at an early period made 
the name of the author known. 

S. S. Hill. " The Emigrant's introduction to an acquaint- 
ance with the British American Colonies, and the present 
condition and prospects of the colonists." London, 1837. 
12mo. 

The writer commences with the emigration after the flood, and 
traces the course of colonization through the Phoenicians, the 
Greeks, and Romans. After a passing glance at Spanish America, 
he narrates the discoveries of England in the Northern part of the 



93 

continent, and gives a short history of the former French Canada 
and the British Provinces. In the second part he describes British 
America. The advice to emigrants is described as the result of 
nearly twenty years personal observation. This work, like those of 
its class, contains several pages of excellent advice, which many an 
emigrant would have done well to follow. 

William Benjamin Wells. " Canadiana : containing 
sketches of Upper Canada and the Crisis in its Political 
Affairs. In two parts. " London, 1837. pp. 202. 8vo. 

Mr. Wells was at the time a journalist and a member of the Upper 
Canada Legislature. The book carries the impress of his opinions, 
which were in strong opposition to the government and the policy 
of Sir Francis Head. Although elected to the house in 1836, Mr. 
Wells, on the ground of the corrupt practices by which the elections 
had been carried, refused to take his seat in the session which met 
on the 8th of Xovember. He proceeded to England to join Robert 
Baldwin and Duncombe in their protest against the administration 
of Sir Francis Bond Head. Lord Glenelg refused to receive them ; 
history must record most unwisely. Mr. Wells therefore ceased to 
have any political charge. During his stay in England this book 
was written ; necessarily coloured by his opinions. It is of value as 
placing on record the political view of the party opposed to the 
government. It also contains much general information regarding 
the province, and, as the work is carefully and well written, all who 
desire to refer to the events of the time can profitably turn to it. 
There is much strong language at the close of the book, which, no 
doubt, as years passed on, the author lived to regret. Especially as 
he rose to a position of some consequence, having been in 1850 
appointed judge in the united county of Kent and Lamb ton, and, on 
their division, in the county of Kent. 

Edward Gibbon AVakefield. " England and America." 
London, 1837. 2 vols., 8vo. 

I have been unable to refer to this work. The first form of this 
book was published in 1833, in which a comparison was made 
between the political institutions of Great Britain and the United 
States. The work of 1837 more fully entered into the question of 



94 

the relationship of a colony to the parent state. It was probably 
owing to the opinions Mr. Wakefield expressed in this volume, that 
he accompanied Lord Durham to Canada in 1838, as private secre- 
tary. It is generally admitted that he took a prominent part in the 
composition of the celebrated Durham report, the production of 
which exercised so remarkable an influence on Canada. Mr. 
Wakefield remained in the province after the departure of Lord 
Durham, as the agent for the Ellice Seigniory, and in the first 
Legislature of Canada [1841-44] on the retirement of Mr. Dunscombe 
as member for the County of Beauharnois, in 1842, Mr. Wakefield 
was elected in his place. Shortly after the termination of this 
parliament he left Canada. He died in 1862. 

Mrs. Jameson. "Winter Studies and Summer Kambles 
in Canada." 3 vols. London, 1838. Small 8vo. 

Mrs. Jameson's book is typified by the words she placed on her 
title-page, " Leid und Kunst und Scherz," being from the writings 
of Rahel, the wife of Yarnhagen von Ense, the friend of Heine, 
then much spoken of, who had shortly before died." "Sorrow, Art, 
and Merriment." We have much of Mrs. Jameson's own experience 
in connection with literary and artistic thought. We would hardly 
expect to find in a book on Canada, that the difference between 
Johnson and Goethe is not greater than that between Eckerman and 
Boswell. But there are many such parallel passages in connection 
with a pleasant narrative of her own Canadian experience. Several 
of Mrs. Jameson's drawings are in the possession of a resident of 
Toronto, Mr. Robert Bain, having been purchased some years back 
at the sale of the effects of that lady, viz. : sixty- six pencil sketches 
contained in a folio scrap book, mostly illustrating views on lakes 
Erie, Huron aud Michigan, with known places in Ontario. They 
are spoken of as shewing much artistic merit. 

Sir George Head. "Forest Scenes and incidents of the 
wilds of North America, being a diary of a winter's route 
from Halifax to the Canadas and during four months' resi- 
dence in the woods on the borders of Lakes Huron and 
Simcoe." London, 1829. 2nd ed., 1838. 

The interest of this book consists in the personal narrative of the 



95 

writer. The second edition contains a special paper on the question 
of the north eastern boundary between the territory of Great 
Britain and the United States, which was then being discussed with 
some acerbity. It was settled by the Ashburton treaty in August, 
1842 ; one of those diplomatic blunders for which " nobody was to 
blame." This boundary, so prejudicial to Canada, arose from the 
error of the British Commissioners in 1797, accepting the tributary 
stream Chiputnaticook, the eastern branch of the main river, when 
the western branch, called the Schoodic, should have been followed. 
Had the latter been so accepted, the boundary would have been 
carried one hundred miles south of its present location, by which 
11,000 square miles would have been gained by the dominion ; a 
line undoubtedly in accordance with the Treaty of 1783. 

Et. Hon. Sir William Molesworth. " Speech on the 
Canada Bill, 23rd January, 1838." London, 1838. 8vo. 

Sir William Molesworth in 1853 was appointed first commissioner 
of public works, and, 1855, became secretary for the colonies. He 
died in October of that year at the early age of 45. 

James Logan, advocate. " Xotes of a Journey through 
Canada, the United States of America and the TTest Indies." 
Edinburgh, 1838. 12mo. 

Mr. Logan landed at Quebec in July, 1836, ascended the Saint 
Lawrence to Montreal, and finally made his way to Goderich, from 
which place he descended Lake Huron to Detroit. The book is a 
record of what was then experienced on this journey of a few days, 
for Mr. Logan reached Detroit in September. 

" Six years in the Bush ; or extracts from the journal of a 
settler in Upper Canada, 1832-1838." London, 1838. Small 
8vo. 

The writer of this book, a university man, on leaving Oxford, 
resolved to try his fortune in America. His opinions maybe judged 
by the words of Coleridge, which he placed on the title page. 
They are not generally known, so they are repeated here : — " Colo- 
nization is not only a manifest expedient, but an imperative duty 
on Great Britain. God seems to hold his finger out to us over the 



96 

sea. But it must be a national colonization, such as was that of 
the Scotch to America : a colonization of Hope, and not such as we 
alone have encouraged and effected for the last fifty years, a 
colonization of Despair." Furnished with letters and possessing 
means, he found little romance in his new career. He went to the 
Talbot settlement and to Lake Simcoe ; but circumstances deter- 
mined his choice of the township of Verulam, where he purchased 
3,000 acres, not far from Fenelon Falls. Peterboro was for a time 
his headquarters. From this spot he went to a ball in Cobourg ; in 
those days no common matter, in the elastic period of youth, for a 
sleigh load of beauty with its attendant cavaliers to drive some 
twenty or thirty miles to be present on such an occasion ; he went 
likewise to a "bachelors' ball" at Peterboro, which, by the brief 
allusion to it, appears to have been a great success. He records 
with more detail the opening of a church in the settlement. He 
describes how they commenced with the " Morning hymn." It is 
surprising, in my humble judgment, how this old English hymn of 
the conscientious non- juror bishop Ken, has passed out of use in 
the Church of England, to be supplanted by much of the dubious 
sentimentality of modern hymnology. Perhaps some Broad- 
church clergyman may see the wisdom of restoring it to use. The 
volume may be described as a pleasant record of personal adventure, 
and in the sense of bringing back to us "the sixty years since," it 
is useful for reference in any description of the time. 

L. de Wette. " Eeise in den Vereingten Staaten und 
Canada im Jahr, 1837." Leipzig, 1838. 8vo. 

William Bettridge, B.D. "A brief history of the church 
in Upper Canada; containing the acts of parliament, imperial 
and provincial \ royal instructions ; proceedings of the 
deputation ; correspondence with the government ; Clergy 
Eeserves question, &c, &c." London, 1838. 8vo. 

Mr. Bettridge, of St. John's College, Cambridge, was the Rector 
of Woodstock, Upper Canada, and in this work writes as a defender 
of the "Clergy Reserves" in the interest of his church. He was 
one of the deputation that in 1837 proceeded to England, to make 
known "to the authorities of Church and State, as also to the 



97 

Clergy and Laity generally, the state of absolute privation of the 
ministrations of our holy religion."' Mr. Bettridge relates the 
result of his mission, and in his narrative publishes many docu- 
ments, in which the "Clergy Reserves" question is discussed from 
his point of view. 

E. Rosier. "The Emigrant's friend in Canada."' London, 
1839. 18mo. 

I have not been able to find this book. 

Sir Francis Bond Head, Bart. "A Narrative." London^ 
1839. 488pp. App. A, 13. B. Stanton, Toronto, 38. 

It falls to my duty to notice this particular work of this brilliant 
litterateur, for it is a narrative of his government of Tapper Canada 
from January, 1836, to March, 1838. There was probably no similar 
political event as his appointment to the position. He himself has 
graphically related all the strange circumstances connected with it ; 
and he adds somewhat naively, ' ' I was really grossly ignorant of 
everything that in any way related to the government of the 
colonies " (p. 25), Sir Francis Hincks in his " Reminiscences of his 
public life " (p. 14) on the authority of Mr. Roebuck asserts that 
the letter of appointment was addressed by lord Glenelg, then 
colonial secretary, to the wrong person. It had been determined to 
discontinue the nomination of military governors, and lord Lans- 
downe had recommended Sir Edmund Head ; by error the letter 
was addressed to Sir Francis Bond Head. Sir Francis Hincks 
adds that he was confirmed in this opinion by "the positive 
assurance of the correctness of the statement by a distinguished 
imperial statesman.'"' In private conversation Sir Francis expressed 
his conviction of its entire truth. 

It is not my purpose in this place to enter into the consideration 
of Head's administration. It is far too complex a question to be 
considered in a few sentences. This, however, may be said, what- 
ever the error of his public career, no one has assailed his desire to 
do right, or the worth of his personal character. He was selected 
to hold the balance between two extreme political parties, each 
marked by extreme arrogance and unyielding opinions, neither 
understanding, even in a minor degree, the tolerance so inclis- 
G 



98 

pensable to political life, and alike unbending in the advocacy of 
the policy each advocated. Moreover, to add to the complications, 
there was a weak, incompetent, colonial minister, whose theory of 
government was to get rid of, rather than to meet an embarrassing 
question. It was likewise a period of transition, and Head, although 
possessing ability and force of character, was without true political 
sagacity, and he had not passed through the training, by which this 
want is to some extent supplied. All his opinions were entertained 
with passionate earnestness, and they were entirely at variance 
with the requirements of Canada. His remedy was to stem all 
democratic spirit as he put it (p. 281) in his despatch of the 10th 
Sept., 1837, to "oppose its progress." 

Head refused to carry out the instructions of the colonial office, 
viz., to place Mr. Bidwell on the bench, and to restore Mr. George 
Ridout to a judgeship. He gave his reasons in a despatch of un- 
usual length, (10th Sept.) and in doing so tendered his resignation. 
It was not accepted until the 26th of January, 1838, when Sir 
George Arthur was appointed to succeed him. Head left Canada 
the following March. 

This work, "a narrative," we are told, was printed in one week. 
It appeared a year after his return to England. His primary view 
was the vindication of his character and government ; in this he 
attained a certain success, for it is not possible to read the book 
without extending to its writer a certain sympathy ; he certainly 
lost no consideration by its appearance. There is no work better 
known to the historical student : one reason is that it is readable, 
and even in his abuse of his opponents Head is straightforward and 
fearlessly expresses his opinions. He doubtless looked upon his 
government of Canada with a feeling he could himself scarcely 
describe ; for if on one side he awoke extreme discontent, in the 
opposite direction he called forth much devotion. Head must be 
always looked upon as one of the many men sent to carry out a 
trying duty, when success is only possible with statesmen of high, 
noble and chivalrous qualities, in connection with unfailing, un- 
sleeping judgment. It is only an act of justice to criticize his 
government with the consideration of its great complications. What- 
ever his faults, he was devoted to the British Empire, and had a 
keen sentiment regarding its glory and greatness. His feeling with 
regard to his own career may, perhaps, be truly expressed by the 



99 

lines he placed on the title page, those of iEneas when he com- 
menced his narrative to Dido of the ruin and destruction of Troy. 

Quamquam animus meminisse horret luctuque refugit ; 

Incipiam. 

T. R. Preston. " Three years' residence in Canada, from 
1837, to 1839 ; with a review of the condition of the Cana- 
dian people, &c, &c." London, 1840. 2 vols., 8vo. 

This book appeared after the two rebellions of 1837, 1838, when 
things had somewhat quieted. An account is given of the events of 
those days, not, however, in a connected form ; and many of the 
prominent topics of the day are considered. This work may be 
principally referred to, as shewing the sentiment of the class of 
persons which the writer represented. 

Charles Buller. " Responsible Government for Colonies." 
London, 1840. 

Mr. Buller was one of the many able men who accompanied lord 
Durham to Canada. He sat in the house of Commons from 1832 
until his death in 1848. He obtained a high reputation as a con- 
tributor to the reviews of his day. 

I cannot pretend that the list I have given of the books 
bearing upon Canada within the sixty years from 1783 to 
1840 published outside the province is complete, even within 
the limit I have observed. I may claim, however, that it 
has been my effort to make it as comprehensive as jDossible. 
Among the works excluded are the pamphlets, which on 
occasions have been numerous. Many have entirely disap- 
peared and remain unknown even by name ; in some instances, 
no copy being extant, the work is unremembered. It is 
possible that no perfect list can be given of these brochures 
without reference to the collection in the British Museum, 
and it would prove a work of no ordinary labour and 

Note JE. II. 12. Although my mind shudders to remember [the 
past] and takes refuge in grief ; I will begin. 

LofC. 



100 

research. It is difficult to draw a precise and defined line 
where the classification of the pamphlet should cease, and 
the higher class of work commence : often the so-called 
volumes are merely expanded pamphlets, while, on the 
other hand, a few well digested, carefully written pages may 
deservedly claim a reputation, to which many a bulky volume 
cannot aspire. 

I cannot accuse myself of want of endeavour to make the 
calendar full and reliable, so far as the sources available for 
reference permitted me. Some of my literary friends, I fear, 
may unpleasantly remember the pertinacity with which I 
troubled them by inquiries. My sources of information have 
been the Parliamentary Library, the Archive branch at 
Ottawa and the city of Toronto Library. I must express my 
thankfulness to the gentlemen connected with these institu- 
tions, Mr. Sylvain, Dr. Brymner, and Mr. James Bain, for 
the assistance I have received from them, and for the for- 
bearance with which they entertained my appeals to their 
attention. I must specially acknowledge the kindness and 
consideration shewn me by Mr. Bain, and the great assistance 
he rendered me. 

In cases where no account is given of the calendared 
volume, I have been unable to gain access to it. 



I have alluded to the Archives in a previous portion of 
this work. I conceive that I may with propriety give some 
account of the Parliamentary Library in Ottawa, and of the 
leading libraries in Ontario. 



The original library of the Province of Canada in 1841 



101 

was formed from the two libraries of the provinces of Upper 
and Lower Canada. There was no very particular effort to in- 
crease its capacity in the early years of the United Province, 
and the additions to it were but moderate. During the 
Montreal riots arising from the Kebellion Losses act, on the 
25th of April, 1849, the Parliament House was senselessly 
burnt by the mob, composed to a great extent of idlers 
and boys, as such a rabble is generally constituted, ^o 
evidence could be obtained how this outrage was committed. 
Whatever the excitement of public feeling, the act at the 
time was regarded as unpremeditated ; and it remains one of 
the many proofs that, when a crowd begins to set law at 
defiance, and is unchecked in the first ebullition of mis- 
chievous folly, it is hard to tell to what excess it will not 
proceed. The madness of the jyTOceeding is in itself a 
proof that, if an intentional act, it was the work of some of 
those reckless hangers-on of tumult in any form, who appear 
upon any public commotion. There was, however, at the 
time a current belief that it arose from some escape of gas. 
The fire raged with such rapidity that it was scarcely pos- 
sible to remove anything from the building. One significant 
act took place, the successful effort to save the Queen's 
portrait, which had been lately painted by Partridge, and 
there was a general concurrence in effecting its preservation. 
It now hangs in the House of Commons at Ottawa ; but the 
romance connected with its presence seems to have been 
generally forgotten. Perhaps these few words may aid in 
revivifying the remembrance of it. The library, however, 
with the exception of some odd volumes, was entirely 
destroyed. 

The material loss to the province was sufficiently serious, 
viewed in its estimate of money. The furniture of the 
building ; an almost entire library of books ; the printed 



102 

records ; with much, of the private property of the members 
of the House and the officers of the Legislature. The loss, 
however serious, was resolvable into figures ; but there was 
much destroyed that indeed was irreparable. Early examples 
of printing in the first years of the province of Upper 
Canada had been inherited from the library of that province, 
in some instances to be found nowhere else ; they forever dis- 
appeared. The Lower Canada section was rich in many 
MSS. and records of French rule, which in past years had 
been gathered by Mr. Faribault. This fine collection was 
burned; in the half-century which has elapsed, for the period 
is close upon that time, in spite of constant attention and 
effort to make the loss in all respects good, it is feared that 
much must remain unreplaced, several of the books and 
MSS. not being procurable.* 

The consequence of these riots was the removal of the 
seat of government from Montreal where they took place, 
and the establishment of the absurd system of the peram- 
bulating change of location ■ four years being passed in 
Toronto, and four in Quebec. The succeeding legislature 
accordingly met in Toronto in May, 1850, and continued 
there during 1851, when the change was made to Quebec. 
This system lasted fifteen years, alternating between the two 
cities. It was found to be cumbersome in every respect, 
leading to great expense, and failing in its object to extend 
advantage to the cities, which could agree on no other policy 

* Mr. Faribault has left on record his wide reading and know- 
ledge in this respect, in the work published by him at Quebec in 
1837: "Catalogue d'ouvrages sur l'histoire de l'Amerique, et en 
particulier sur celle du Canada, de la Louisiane, de l'Acadie, et 
d'autres lieux, ci-devant connus sous le nom de la Nouvelle-France. 
Avec des notes bibliographiques, critiques et litteraires. " The 
volume is now somewhat rare. 






103 



regarding the seat of government, but its constant change. 
Finally, after much political difficulty, which in no way I 
feel called upon to narrate, Ottawa was named as the seat 
of government, and on the 8th of June, 1866, the legisla- 
ture met in the new parliamentary buildings.* 

But the misfortunes of the perambulating government 
were not finished, and in their train the library was again a 
sufferer. On the 1st of February, 1854, the House of 
Assembly at Quebec was destroyed by fire. Commissioners 
were appointed to inquire into the cause, and, as indeed might 
have been expected, no evidence was forthcoming to warrant 
a positive opinion on the subject. The testimony of the 
witnesses was reported at length, and the public was left to 



The following are the dates of the change : — 

1850 Toronto. House assembled, 14th May. 
1851 



1852 
3 
4 
5 


Quebec. 
Toronto. 


19th August. 


1856 


" " 15th February. 


/ 
8 
9 


Quebec. 




1860 
1 


28th February. 


2 

3 
4 
5 




19th January. 
The last session held at Quebec. 



1866 



8th June. The first session at Ottawa. 



104 

form its own conclusions. There is, however, ground for 
belief that the fire was attributable to defective flues. It 
was first discovered in the early morning about three o'clock 
on the 1st of February, in a new wing lately constructed, 
and before assistance could be obtained it made rapid 
progress. Many alterations in the building had been hastily 
carried out, and little precaution had been taken against the 
possibility of fire. The messengers had examined the rooms 
before leaving the building, and there was no discovery of 
any want of care. The mode of heating the building was 
pronounced to have been in no way the cause of the fire, 
direct or indirect, and the commissioners added their 
unhesitating opinion that the burning was purely the result 
of accident and not of design.* 

We learn from the commissioners' report some facts con- 
nected with the library At the last examination the library 
consisted of 17,000 volumes, which had been collected at an 
expense of £10,000 ($40,000). A great number of books 
had been received as donations, and, including such volumes, 
the actual value of the library was established at .£11,723 
($46,892). Of the 17,000 volumes on the shelves at the 
period of the fire, 8,725 were preserved. As the library was 
insured for $40,000, no loss resulted to the province in this 
respect, there being an amount sufficient to replace the 
missing books. The loss on the building and furniture, 
deducting the insurance, was $150,000. 

It is a curious fact to commemorate that the catastrophe 
was repeated some weeks subsequently. The House of 

* " Report of the commissioners appointed to inquire into the 
cause of the fire at the parliament buildings on the 1st of February, 
1854, and the circumstances connected therewith. J. W. Dunscomb 
and Oliver Fiset, Esquires, commissioners ; Geo. Futvoye, Esquire, 
secretary, Quebec, 1854." The report is dated 27th February. 



105 

Assembly had been so thoroughly destroyed that the govern- 
ment hired the convent of the Sisters of Charity near the 
glacis by Saint John's gate, fronting on St. Olivier street. On 
the night of the 3rd of May this edifice was discovered to 
be on fire, which continued until the building was gutted 
and unfit for occupation. Workmen were engaged upon the 
premises at the time, and, as but little of the government 
furniture had been moved there, in this respect there was 
scarcely any loss. As the books had not been transferred 
the library was in no way a sufferer. The consequence of 
this second fire was that the Music Hall in Saint Louis 
street was hired for the use of the legislative assembly, and 
the Court House was assigned to the council.* The library 
was installed in the building in Saint Louis street, opposite 
the Music Hall. 

Parliament met on the 13th of June. This narrative not 
being a political treatise, it is only necessary to remark that 
Mr. Cauchon moved an amendment to the address, expressing 
regret that the seigneurial question had not been considered, 
to which Mr. Sicotte supplemented an expression of regret, 
that the clergy reserves had been left unmentioned in view of 
their secularization. The amendment was carried by a vote 
of 42 to 24. It was a vote of want of confidence. The 
majority comprehended the most opposite elements, and Lord 
Elgin, on the advice of his ministry, on the 20th of the 

* A commission consisting of Mr. R. S. M. Bouchette and Mr. 
Dunbar Ross was appointed to examine into the causes of the acci- 
dent. They reported on the 19th of June, but were unable to come 
to any conclusion. At the date of the fire 150 carpenters and joiners 
were actively employed in the building. Their duty being limited 
to this inquiry, no other point is touched upon. [Vol. 13, 1st Sess. 
V. parliament, 1854-5, No. 7.] The Quebec Chronicle of the 6th 
states : " The Legislature had removed very few of its effects to the 
building, and had therefore lost little." 



106 

month took the political world by surprise by proroguing the 
House. A general election followed. Parliament met on 
the 5th of September and sat until the 18th of December, 
when it adjourned until the 23rd of February, 1855. The 
sittings were continued until the 30th of May. The next 
session was held at Toronto on the 15th of February, 1856. 

The journals of Parliament record the thanks of the House 
to the archbishop, the ecclesiastics of the seminary, and the 
military for their exertions in saving a portion of the library. 
Thanks were voted to the emperor of the French for the 
munificent donation made by the French government ; to the 
houses of lords and commons, the lord chancellor and 
speaker of the house of commons, and to several societies 
and private gentlemen for their contributions. Also, to the 
president of the United States and the governors and legis- 
latures of Xew York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Ohio, 
Maine, Vermont, Virginia, Michigan, Louisiana, Massachusetts 
and New Hampshire, and to others. The librarian was also 
sent to England to make purchases to replace the books 
destroyed. 

It cannot be said that much was done to bring the library 
to a high state of efficiency during the remaining years that 
the " perambulation " took place. The Government remained 
in Toronto until 1859. In 1860 the legislature was again at 
Quebec. There was no further move to Toronto. Ottawa 
had been finally established as the seat of government, and 
the legislature remained at Quebec until permanently trans- 
ferred to the new capital. The last session held at Quebec 
opened on the 19th of January, 1865, and closed the 30th of 
June. On the 8th of June, 1866, the first parliament was 
opened at Ottawa. It was the last parliament of the old 
province of Canada. 

It is from the period of confederation that the library 



107 

may be said to date the commencement of its present 
excellence. As the books increased, it was soon seen that the 
provision made for the library was totally inadequate ; conse- 
quently the present circular structure, originally designed by 
Mr. Thomas Fuller, was placed under contract : the interior 
arrangement being that of Mr. Thomas S. Scott, chief archi- 
tect, public works. Being completed, without fixtures, in 
1876, shortly after the still well remembered fancy ball of 
lord Dufferin, a ball was given there, if my memory does not 
fail me, by Mr. Cauchon, then speaker of the Senate. In 
a short time afterwards the library fittings were completed 
and the books transferred to them. Xo one can stand in 
this noble hall without being impressed with the dignity of its 
appearance, and its extent. The liberality of the legislature, 
however, and the desire on every side to make the parlia- 
mentary library worthy the country, have led to a most liberal 
expenditure, and already the pressure of insufficient room is 
felt. It is very certain, if the library is to retain its character, 
that additional room must be found. I will not take upon 
myself to say in what form. It is a subject which demands 
much consideration. When these additions are made, they 
should be of sufficient extent to last for a century. Those 
who have carefully studied the question have no doubt 
definite views of what is required, and the subject has to be 
approached in an enlarged spirit, narrowed by no false 
economy, or unwise limitation. If I hesitate to express 
an opinion as to the course to be followed, it is not from 
any want of faith in the necessity of the enlargement. It 
is a fact patent to every man of letters admitted to the 
library, and those senators and members of parliament 
who have considered the question are fully impressed with 
the sense of the obligation which in this respect lies upon 
the government. 



108 

The present unsatisfactory condition of the library arises 
from its very wealth. It possesses so many volumes as to be 
cramped for room : the shelves are crowded, and the search 
for a book is often embarrassing. There is a class of people 
who may say, then buy no more books. That is one remedy, 
it is true ; but it can be carried out only at the cost of lagging 
behind all modern thought ; by remaining ignorant of the 
discoveries of science ; by failing to go onward with the 
advance of art ; by ceasing to occupy the front rank in the 
elevating pursuit of literature. If we do not tremble at the 
appearance of a comet,* if we know the benefit of drainage 
to avoid disease, if we have no plagues of the middle ages, if 
we no longer believe in the charlatanism which finds coal at 
Quebec and Bowman ville, if we learn that there is something 
higher in life than making money, and being a trickster and a 
perjurer in politics, if we have law based on sense and reason, 
it is because we have books, to teach us what is right, materi- 
ally and morally. We may count, therefore, on the general 
assent that the library must be continued at its present high 
standard of excellence. If this theory is to be maintained, 
greater library accommodation must be obtained. It is a 
matter not without difficulty, but it is by no means insuper- 
able. It is not one lightly or flippantly to be approached, 
for it demands much reflection, and prudence and judgment 
have to be exercised in determining the course to be fol- 
lowed. One fact may be relied upon, that the proposition 
would command such universal countenance, that those 
inclined to oppose the augmentation would generally hesitate 
to assert themselves, if animated by a love of popularity. 

I will, however, take upon myself to suggest an arrange- 

* It is only two centuries back that Boyle wrote his ' ' Pensees 
diverses ecrites a un Docteur de Sorbonne a l'occasion de la comete 
qui parut au mois de Decembre, 1680." 



109 

ment, which would for some years greatly relieve the present 
pressure, and which is desirable in many points of view, 
especially from the accommodation it would extend to the 
more studious senators and members of parliament ; those 
who refer to law authorities, and fit themselves for debate. 
It is to convert the present reading room into a law library, 
and, keeping it au courantoi all literature of this class, place 
it in charge of an able, educated sub-librarian, who would 
take charge of the branch, with a sufficient number of assist- 
ants to attend to the mechanical labour of fetching books. 
The remedy is as inexpensive as it would prove efficient. 
Where, it may be said, would you establish the reading room ? 
It is not my duty to examine into that point, and, were it so, 
I would hesitate to express an opinion, without a full con- 
sideration of every interest involved. I am told, on what I 
regard as good authority, that there would be no difficulty in 
that direction. The situation of the present reading room, it 
must be recollected, was that of the first library, and, as we 
regard it at this date, one cannot but feel how ridiculously 
small it was for the original purpose intended. From this 
fact, however, it is directly accessible both from the senate 
and house of commons, and in that point of view presents 
admirable advantages for the use suggested. The establish- 
ment of such an addendum should be regulated according to 
the strictest rules. It should be regarded as if it were a close 
literary club : no one admitted, except a senator or a member 
of the lower house, without a joint written order from the 
speakers, and then only under exceptional circumstances. 
Out of the session the admission could be more general, under 
certain rules. This arrangement would for a time, indepen- 
dently of the benefit it would extend to the higher class of 
members, greatly relieve the pressure in the library. It 
would exact no large disbursement to effect the change, and 



110 

I think it may be safely said, it would in no way lead to 
inconvenience. 

Possibly these recommendations may arouse so much 
attention, that the change will be enforced by public opinion, 
although it is without promise of political support to the 
ministry. 

I have now to turn to the condition and extent of the 
library itself, in which every branch of science, art, litera- 
ture and law is to be found ; the collection numbers 150,000 
distinct works, entered upon the catalogue. The number of 
volumes which they represent is difficult to determine. 
Those who are learned in averages may draw their own 
conclusions on this point. They have been estimated roughly 
at a quarter of a million. 

A large portion of the annual appropriation so liberally 
voted by parliament is devoted to the acquisition of works 
upon law, social and political economy, political history, 
history and statistics, and belles lettres. The political section 
likewise receives a great increase from the exchanges received 
from foreign governments ; a recognized system, both court- 
eous and useful, by which all libraries are greatly benefited. 
Thus, the collection in this respect is not only enriched 
by the parliamentary papers and reports of Great Britain, 
France and the United States, but also from many of the 
states of the Union, and the greater number of the British 
colonies. 

The historical student will find no want unsatisfied in his 
research. A rare collection of books, French and English, 
necessary to investigation, is available for use ; it includes 
as far as possible, all that recent research has brought to 
light ; the publications issued under the authority of the 
Master of the Kolls in the mother country : " La collection 
des Documents Inedits," published by the French govern- 



Ill 

ment; the works brought out by "La Societe cle l'histoire de 
France;" "American Archives," edited by Peter Force; also, 
the publications of the societies devoted to the exploration 
of Palestine and Egypt, which have in the last few years 
thrown great light on several of the knotty points of 
ancient history, with the splendid fac-similes of papyri 
issued by the British Museum of the works of Schliemann, 
de Cesnola and others. 

Especial care is taken in the collections bearing upon the 
history of the northern continent of America. I would be 
ungrateful if I failed to bear testimony to its excellence and 
to the courtesy extended to me in reference to it. In the 
two fires which I have recorded, the greatest loss experienced 
in the library was the destruction of documents of this class, 
the void of which is still felt in spite of every effort made to 
replace them. Generally the works I have calendared were 
from the shelves of the library. In the instances when I 
failed to meet with them, Dr. Brymner and Mr. Bain, of 
the Toronto library, came to my rescue with characteristic 
courtesy and kindness. 

The inventor and patent-seeker can complain of no lack of 
sources of information in the richness of the collection which 
lies at their disposal. They will find a complete set of the 
specifications of the patents granted in the United Kingdom, 
France, the United States, with those of the leading British 
provinces in the outer empire. The above are supplemented 
by the official and non-official reports of the International, 
Intercolonial, and the other leading exhibitions held since 
1850. 

The series of the proceedings and transactions of the 
learned societies of the United Kingdom, France, and the 
United States are to be found generally complete, likewise 
the leading reviews, magazines, and the chief periodicals of 
those countries. 



112 

The section of the fine arts may be asserted to be, without 
undue praise or exaggeration, unsurpassed on the continent. 
For the past years it has been developed with much good 
taste and judgment. Among its most valuable examples 
may be mentioned the "Chalcographie du Musee du Louvre," 
from the library of Louis Philippe, king of the French, in 
81 volumes; " Gavard's Galeries historiques," with supple- 
ment, 17 volumes; the "Musee Frangais;" the " Annales 
du Musee et de l'Ecole moderne des Beaux Arts ; " the 
publications of the " Arundel Society; 57 autotype produc- 
tion of the works of Raphael and the great painters of 
modern times; "Stodart's drawings of the Bayeux Tapestry;" 
Wagner's " Treasures of Art in Great Britain ; " John 
Ruskin's works ; Hogarth ; masterpieces of French, German 
and Italian art ; Holbein's " Dance of Death ; " the Chats- 
worth Raffaelles ; reproductions of Landseer, Millais, 
Whistler, and of most of the known modern artists. 

The Greek and Latin classics, although not rich in ancient 
and renowned editions, make a good exhibit. The last 
imprints of modern scholarship are well represented, all the 
new editions being obtained, as they appear, to be added to 
the list : such works as those of Jowett, Jebb, Conington 
and men of their class. There is to be found "Yalpy's 
Classics," edition of 1830; "Bonn's classical library ;" "La 
collection des Auteurs Grecs," with the Latin translation, 
published by the great firm of Firmin, Didot of Paris ; the 
collection published by Panckoucke, with French transla- 
tion, and several minor editions. 

In German and Italian the principal standard authors only 
are to be found. They consist chiefly of the classical poets 
and belles-lettres. The readers in this branch of literature 
have been so exceedingly limited as in no way to suggest 
great expenditure in this direction. In German, however, 



113 

the works bearing in any way on the American revolu- 
tionary war are present for reference.* The best known 
English translations of the standard authors of Germany and 
Italy represent this branch of literature. 

During the past years no effort has been spared to procure 
the earliest and best editions of all English standard 
works, both in prose and poetry. It is not always an 
easy matter to reach this result ; catalogues have to be 
studied, and much attention and correspondence are neces- 
sary to attain success. These books are only to be obtained 
as opportunity offers, and not unfrequently the order arrives 
too late for the purchase. Full success in this design must 
be a matter of time and constant watchfulness. 

The editions of Shakespeare with the commentaries on 
his plays constitute a small library in themselves. It is 
painful to add that many of these sets are imperfect. It 
may be said that it is in this direction the greatest ravages 
in past years have been made by those who have the right 
to take books from the library. Several of the editions 
have been disgracefully mutilated, and are incomplete. It is 
not only in this direction that this remark applies. The 
classical library has greatly suffered. Books have disappeared 
from the shelves, many of which were authoritatively 
obtained, and remain unreturned. Sir John Abbott, if he 
has not abandoned the studies of his youth, in which he 
obtained seme distinction, may possibly feel himself called 
upon, when these deficiencies in the classics are brought to 

* The latest addition is " Schlosser's Letters," in 28 volumes. 
A portion of their contents have lately been translated by Mr. W. 
L. Stone, of Xew Jersey. "Brief Wechsel meist historischen und 
politischen Inhalts. August Ludwig Schlosser [1776-1782]. Got- 
tingen, 10 vols. Staats Anzeigen Gesammelt von August Ludwig 
Schlosser. Vol. I., 1772. Vol. XVIII. , 1793. 18 vols. 

H 



114 

his attention, to see that steps are taken to supply the loss. 
He is the one member of the present ministry who can be 
appealed to, for no other has any knowledge of these studies, 
or the least sympathy with them. There are some members 
of the senate and house of commons who may feel interested 
in this appeal, and who may consider it a duty to intervene 
in this emergency. The fact that many valuable works 
have been rendered imperfect must be stated without 
circumlocution, and also that books of the library have been 
discreditably injured and mutilated. 

There ought to be a stringent law, that valuable books of 
a high order should on no account be permitted to leave the 
walls of the library, even at the demand of the highest 
personage in the Dominion. They should only be open to 
reference within the building. It is at variance with sense 
and propriety, that these volumes should be placed in the 
hands of any persons who are ignorant of their value, and 
who are indifferent as to the treatment which they receive. 
It is a point, concerning which no privilege should be pleaded, 
for it is, on occasions, exercised only in mischief. I court 
an inquiry into the matter, so that it may be seen if in any 
respect I misrepresent or exaggerate. 

The admirable manner in which the catalogue is kept is 
deserving of special allusion. In the first place, the cali- 
graphy is such that the absence of printer's type is never 
missed ; not always a feature in catalogues. It consists of 
two divisions of books : one in which the works are entered 
in their classification, as they are received; the other, in 
which authors are recorded alphabetically, with reference 
made to the full title of their work, and the shelf where 
each volume is to be found. A reader may thus learn in the 
simplest manner, by turning to the register, if the name of 
the author sought for is on the catalogue ; and the place 
where the work is accessible. 



115 

There has been some attempt of late years to " simplify " 
cataloguing, as it is called, so as to reduce the labour of 
entry ; one of which is to insert the name of the author on a 
card, and place it in a drawer in its alphabetical position. 
This system has found great favour in many libraries of the 
United States, and has been to a great extent brought into 
use. By many it is claimed as a modern improvement, 
capable of the fullest expansion, as being easy of reference 
and getting rid of much, as its advocates qualify it, useless 
labour. Saving the last adjective, it may be admitted that 
this result is in a way obtained, and, from the view of the 
official in the library, may be perhaps sustained by addi- 
tional argument. But is not this beside the question ? A 
librarian is not at the head of his staff as an ornamental 
personage. To my mind, his first function is a higher one 
than simply discovering the easiest mode in which he can 
perforin his duty. His obligation is undoubtedly to govern 
the library wisely, and discreetly expend the money confided 
to him ; but the library itself has been established and is 
endowed for the benefit of the student, for the readers who 
refer to its volumes. The primary question, then, to my 
mind, is not what gives the least trouble to the officials, 
but what is the most effective way of giving information to 
those seeking it. Like everything else in life, there is no 
royal road to a perfect catalogue, and the one consideration 
is, not the amount of labour, or the simplicity of the system 
on which it may be made, but the means by which informa- 
tion can be readily obtained by those looking for it. The 
written alphabetical catalogue, kept up to the latest edition, 
can be referred to by anyone who can read and write. On 
this subject it may be said there are two classes of persons 
who have recourse to these volumes : the one that patiently 
and reverently turns over the leaves, careful to avoid injury ; 



116 

and the very opposite, those negligent, reckless examiners, 
who, considering only their own momentary want, carelessly 
and hastily persevere in their search, -indifferent as to the 
injury they inflict on the pages they are consulting. Such 
semi-barbarians, at least in this point of view, should be 
debarred the use of the library. By this mode of examina- 
tion, i.e., reference to the catalogue, the information desired 
on any subject is gained in the easiest and most rapid manner. 
The card system is tedious, cumbersome and fatiguing for 
reference by the student. In every well-conducted library 
the works are classified : the consequence is, that with the 
best intention a mistake may be made and a book unwisely 
catalogued, and so escape attention, being placed in the 
wrong class. In an alphabetical index, where name succeeds 
name regardless of the subject, and reference is made to the 
volume of classification, where the title of the book is given 
in full, such a mischance is impossible. 

I am quite aware that the opinions I express will be con- 
troverted by many men of ability and reputation. I am not, 
however, unacquainted with libraries, and my remarks may 
claim some attention, from the experience which has sug- 
gested them. The system of cataloguing in the parliamentary 
library, in my humble judgment, is most satisfactory, and in 
every respect reflects the highest credit on the gentlemen in 
charge of it. 

Some mention must be made of the Canadian coinage in 
the library. It is not kept in cabinets, but placed under 
glass cases, so that it may be remarked by the many holiday 
visitors who enter the library. It is well arranged in this 
form as one of the sights by the custodian, Mr. Casault. 
Care is taken by him to keep it up to the latest standard. 
There are many medals annually struck to record passing 
events, especially in connection with the Eoman catholic 



117 

societies, and to perpetuate the merits of some enterprising 
trader. Every numismatist remembers the copper tokens 
of the mother country. Those of the time of Charles L, 
issued between 1640 and 1660. have been catalogued by 
Mr. Boyle. Ten thousand specimens are recorded : it is 
believed that the total issue exceeded double this number. 
The remarkable Beaufoy collection, belonging to the cor- 
poration of imperial London, is set forth in a work of 
unusual learning and ability. What are called the Conder 
tokens, from the name of the person who has catalogued 
them, were issued towards the close of the last century. 
They first appeared in 1798 and died out in 1801. Without 
varieties and "mules," there are about 1,200 tokens which 
can be legitimately so considered. Conder catalogues 2,400. 
The later copper tokens, which appeared between 1810-15, 
remain uncatalogued : the silver tokens of the date have 
been placed on record. This branch of numismatics is a 
study in itself. 

Those who have never looked into the matter will be 
surprised to learn that Canada has a literature in this respect. 
The first book printed on the subject was by Mr. Alfred 
Sandham, " Coins, Tokens and Medals of the Dominion/"' 
Montreal, 1869. 

Mr. Sandham was in this respect the instrument of 
reducing our numismatic chaos to order. Many writers have 
followed him, the last being Dr. Leroux, whose volume 
appears to be the standard book. Collectors, however, say 
that it is not ''das buch der Zukunft : " 1854 pieces are 
catalogued. They include what is known of the coinage 
during the French regime, current in Xew Prance. The 
special coinage for Canada, however, was not important at 
this date.* 

* The latest authority on the pieces issued, previous to the 



118 

In the form in which the medals and coins are kept, they 
are well arranged, and much attention has been bestowed to 
keep the collection ate courant of the latest pieces struck in 
the Dominion, and in obtaining examples of the coinage 
current during French rule. The collection bids fair to be as 

conquest, by France for Canada and the colonies, is E. Zay, 
"Histoire Monetaire des Colonies Franchises d'apres les documents 
Officiels, avec 278 figures." Paris, 1892. I am indebted to Mr. 
Casault for reference to this volume. They are as follows : — 

FOR THE COLONIES GENERALLY. 

(1.) Piece de 15 sols (silver). 

LUD. XIIIL, D.G. (soleil), FR. ET. NAV. REX. 

R. GLORIAM REGNI TUI DICENT, 1670. Ex. A. 
(2.) The same piece, smaller. 5 sols. 
(3.) A pattern piece at Paris, never issued. Copper. 

LUDOVICUS XIIIL, D. G. R., FRAN. ET. NAV. REX. 

In field 16 L. 70, under a crown A. 

R. in four lines, DOUBLE | DE LA | MERIQUE | FRAN- 
CAISE. Ex. A. 3. Fleurs-de-lis. 
(4.) Copper. 

LUD. XV., D. G., FR. ET NAV. REX. 

R. XII. DENIERS COLONIES, 1717. Ex. Q. 
(5.) The same mint for 

VI. DENIERS. 
(6.) Copper. 

SIT NOMEN DOMINI BENEDICTUM. 

2 L. [en sautoir, couronnes.] 

R. COLONIES FRANCAISES, 1721. Ex. H. 
(7.) Billon. 

In field C. crowned, the legend not decipherable, marked 
on one side only. 

(8. ) Double sol de 24 deniers. 

L. crowned with 3 fleurs-de-lis in field. 
LUD. XV., D. G., FR. ET. NAV. REX. Ex. A fox. 
R. SIT NOM. DOM. BENEDICTUM. 173S. Ex. A. 
2 L. affrontees et croissees. Crown above. 



119 

perfect as it can be made. At present it is weak on one or 
two sections, especially with regard to the sacramental 
tokens. It is to be hoped that no opportunity which offers 
for legitimately completing this national collection will be 
allowed to pass by. It is, likewise, worthy of consideration 
whether it be not advisable to place the medals and coins in 
the orthodox cabinet, instead of leaving them under glass 
cases, as is the practice in the modern ten-cent museum.* 
According to Mr. Casault the Canadian coins number 731, 
the medals, 546 ; making a total of 1,277. 

I have spoken of the sacramental tokens. Mr. E. W. 
McLachlan, of Montreal, last year published a thin volume, 
but of much use to the Canadian numismatist, " Canadian 
Communion Tokens," a catalogue of metal sacramental tickets 
used in the different Presbyterian churches in Canada. Mr. 
McLachlan is the pioneer in this branch of the science ; he 
gives a catalogue of 241 such tokens. The labour of gaining 
the information must have been a serious matter, for it was 
only derivable by direct correspondence with the ministers of 
the several churches. These tokens, in the first instance, 
arose with the Scotch Presbyterians, and were subsequently 
accepted by the reformed churches of France. They were 
never used in England and Ireland. Xo doubt the custom 
took its origin in Scotland from its necessity. The popula- 
tion at the time was scattered ; the sacrament was only 
administered at long intervals on a given date, and many 

* Independently of the charge of the coins, Mr. Casault is re- 
sponsible for the care of the library with the books, and has many 
varied duties to perform ; among them is that of dispensing the 
stationery. The latter, however, in modern times, is not a weighty 
office ; for out of the session even one sheet of paper cannot be 
obtained by a reader in the library, without special humble applica- 
tion. 



120 

communicants travelled long distances in order to be present. 
The production of the ticket was a proof of worthiness to 
be admitted to the rite. These tickets are of many 
descriptions of form and size, and are made of copper, brass, 
white metal, and even of silver. 

According to Mr. McLachlan, the earliest known Canadian 
token is that of Truro, Nova Scotia, formerly Cobequid. It 
was at this spot the first organized Presbyterian church was 
established in British America. The earliest Montreal token 
is dated 1803. It is from the church organized by the Eev. 
John Bethune in 1788, which met in the old Eecollet 
church in Notre Dame street until 1792, when the first St. 
Gabriel church was built. The oldest known token of 
Canada is that of 1794, in use by the Glengarry settlers.* 



It is a most agreeable duty to record the re-establishment 
of the library of Toronto University, in a period so short as 
to call for wonderment at its re-creation. It may be remem- 
bered that only sixteen months have elapsed since the 
destruction of the whole building by fire, on the 14th of 
February, 1890, when the interior of the main building, 
including the convocation hall and library, was completely 
gutted, the walls alone remaining standing. The library, 
admirably selected, then contained about 33,000 volumes, 
including many valuable editions of the Greek and Latin 
classics, which the scholarship and the good taste of the 
first president, Dr. McCaul, had led him to collect. The 
interior of the library was particularly striking, all the 

* The Scottish tokens have been catalogued by the Rev. Thomas 
Bums, P.S.A., Edinburgh. The United States tokens by Mr. 
Thomas Warner, New York. 



121 

compartments having been built of carved oak, the whole of 
excellent architectural effect. The extraordinary energy 
shewn in the restoration of the building, the walls having 
remained generally without injury, permitted the recom- 
mencement of university work last October, the students 
according to their university years returning to their 
restored class-rooms. In January of this year they entered 
into full occupation of the new building. 

The library is no longer within the main building ; it has 
been constructed apart, on the east side of the college lawn, 
and every modern expedient has been employed to make 
it proof against future similar destruction. It is being 
carried out on the scale to receive 120,000 volumes, and the 
design has been adopted with the view of permitting its 
extension, when, in future time, the wealth of the library 
will fortunately exact it. 

Great sorrow throughout the province was felt at this 
national loss, and immediate steps were taken to make it 
good. Provincial and private subscriptions flowed into the 
exchequer. In the mother country, the sympathy took the 
form of reconstructing the library. A public committee was 
formed, of which Lord Lome was elected chairman, and 
great efforts were made to obtain contributions ; pre-eminent 
among the donors were the Queen, and Emperor of Germany. 

The governments of Europe and that of the United 
States generously aided in every way that was possible. The 
Australian provinces practically shewed their sympathy ; 
while the universities of the mother country and of the 
continent added valuable contributions. In many cases, 
renowned men of letters sent their books with their auto- 
graph presentation. 

The consequence has been that the university and the 
library are again established. A sigh may now and then be 



122 

given to the fine old library hall by those who knew it, but 
there is little fear that there will be weeping when the 
second temple shall be witnessed in its completeness. The 
thought will be rather that of congratulation, that the 
university is so happily entering upon its new life, that 
the restored building is a positive, existent, material fact, 
and that the new library " flashes now a phoenix," to increase 
in extent and usefulness. 

I have mentioned the rare classical editions which the 
university formerly possessed. I am informed that a special 
fund is being raised to replace as far as possible this admir- 
able collection, including the works on archaeology and the 
noble volumes of the Greek and Latin authors, once the 
pride of the library. The generation which was personally 
cognizant of Dr. McCaui's fame as an epigrammatist facile 
princeps, will doubtless regard the intention as a special 
appeal to aid in this integration. It will also be an intima- 
tion received with great satisfaction by those who do not 
consider education to consist merely of the three B/s, 
"reading, 'riting and 'rithmetic," that the valuable private 
library of the late doctor has been presented to the university. 
Those who knew and estimated his sound and refined scholar 
ship must offer their congratulations to the senate on this 
acquisition. By all accounts, the library building is in so 
advanced a condition that it may possibly be occupied by 
the end of October. The number of works at present on 
the catalogue is about 25,000, consisting of 41,500 volumes. 

* I am indebted to the kindness of the president, Sir Daniel 
Wilson, for the information contained in the text. Sir Daniel was 
good enough to place in my hands revised proofs of a pamphlet 
which he is about publishing, in acknowledgment of the considera- 
tion and sympathy received by the University, in the hour of mis- 
fortune. 



123 

The library of Queen's University is limited in extent, 
containing 20,000 volumes. The books are well selected; 
the accommodation of the building will admit double the 
number. Last year the additions were noteworthy, being 
Guizot's "Collection des Memoires," and Petitot's well-known 
collection, 131 volumes. It is anticipated that this branch 
of literature will shortly be increased by Pertz' " Monumenta 
Historica Germanica," and Muratori's collection of Italian 
annals : with these additions the sources of information as 
of mediaeval history will be as complete as we may look for 
in ordinary circumstances. 

The University has of late so enlarged its operations in 
the material effort of adding new buildings, and of appointing 
new professors to meet the increased number of students, 
that the annual expenditure for the library is somewhat 
cramped. The fact is well known among the old graduates, 
and the feeling is very strong that some effort should be 
made to establish a library fund. The amount of $50,000 
has been named as a desirable endowment. It would furnish 
nearly 83,000 a year, and this amount judiciously spent on 
books, would, in half a century, effect great results. The 
late Mr. Robert Sutherland, of Walkerton, a graduate of 
the University, recently left the library his collection of 
law books, and Mr. Alexander Morris his collection of 
works on Canadian history. Those whose circumstances 
admit of substantially aiding the University in this respect, 
whether graduates whose early life was passed within its 
precincts, or men, whose connection with it is that of 
sympathy and appreciation, should bear in mind, how well 
applied any beneficence in this direction on their part will be. 



It is only within the last ten years that systematic efforts 



124 

have been made to widen the scope of the library of 
Trinity College. Until that date it had been limited chiefly 
to the standard works of the Church of England and of 
patristic literature, with several volumes of well-known non- 
episcopal writers. The present provost introduced the 
system of an annual appropriation, which is expended 
generally on history and the other branches of literature. 
Theological works, however, continue to obtain the pre- 
ference. Classics form one of the most striking features in 
the library, consisting of 1,500 volumes, among which is 
Yalpy's edition of the Delphin classics [1819-1830]. The 
supporters of Trinity College cannot more wisely aid the 
institution than by augmenting the library. 

Trinity College dates from the 17th of March, 1851, when 
the first sod was turned by Bishop Strachan. On the 
secularization of the National University of King's College, 
it was resolved to establish a Theological University for the 
clergy of the Church of England, which at the same time 
would admit lay students. It obtained a royal charter, 
dated the 16th of July, 1853. Its endowment was the result 
of subscriptions obtained in the mother country by Bishop 
Strachan, and the money collected in Canada. The design 
of Mr. Kivas Tully having been accepted, the corner stone 
was laid by Bishop Strachan on the 30th of April, 1851, and 
the first service was performed in the college chapel on the 
15th of January, 1852, when the main building was occupied 
for the purposes of the college.* 

* On this occasion Bishop Strachan gave the following account 
of the success of his mission in England. Speaking of his 
application to obtain the means of endowment, he said: — "In 
this the two great Church Societies and the University of Oxford 
took the lead. The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in 
Foreign Parts voted two thousand pounds, payable by instalments 



125 

The above brief narrative will shew the difficulties with 
which the institution has had to contend, and it furnishes 
an explanation, if the library is in some respects not per- 
fectly equipped. 



The Legislative Library in Toronto has never been the 
object of great favour on the part of the members of the 
house, consequently, it has remained within a someAvhat 
narrow limit. It contains possibly some 8,000 works, set 
forth in the catalogue ; books of value generally Avell selected. 
It makes no pretence to being more than a library of refer- 
ence, and no specialty has been developed. Last year a new 
catalogue was issued, by which the character of the books 
can be judged. It shews the weakness of the library in 
many respects, and it may probably have the good effect of 
inducing members of the legislatures to put to themselves 
the pertinent question, if the parliamentary library of rich 
and prosperous Ontario should be without any of the classical 
authors, or contain no books on its shelves in any other 
language but that of English; and whether in the interest of 
the members themselves, the library ought, or ought not to 
be kept up to the horizon of modern thought in sociology, 

of four hundred pounds per annum, and a donation of seven acres 
and a half of land within the precincts of the City of Toronto 
worth at least as much more. The Society for Promoting Christian 
Knowledge granted three thousand, and the University of Oxford 
live hundred pounds. The subscriptions from individuals through- 
out England exceed four thousand pounds, in sums of tens, 
twenties and fifties, up to £104, from Liverpool. One generous 
benefactor deserves particular notice, Charles Hampden Turner, 
Esquire, F.R.S., Rook's Xest Park, Surrey, who has given us the 
princely gift of five hundred pounds." 



126 

history and political philosophy. This view cannot have 
failed to present itself to several members of a house con- 
taining many educated men. The Legislature of Ontario is 
not under the conditions of a university, struggling to 
increase its professors, to extend its buildings, and yearly to 
obtain costly works of reference, not simply in English, but 
in the European continental languages. There is no proper 
expenditure of this character which the popular vote of 
Ontario will not fully justify. It would in my judgment be 
an acceptable policy to place the parliamentary library at 
the standard which the dignity of the province suggests. 
A few years' liberal appropriation would attain the happiest 
result. The very atmosphere of a well supplied library has 
an elevating effect on the minds of those who breathe it. 
One of its teachings to any man of sense is to suggest the 
reflection, how much is to be read and pondered over, before 
the higher duties of life can be, with the best intentions, 
wisely and efficiently performed. 



The Public Library of Toronto is deserving of mention 
from the energy displayed in its establishment, and the 
success which has attended its operation. Its existence was 
legalized by the Eree-Library By-Law voted on the 1st of 
January, 1883.* The building in Church Street formerly 
used as the Mechanics' Institute was obtained, and enlarged 
so as to afford space for 150,000 volumes. The library 
was formally opened on the 6th of March, 1884, by the 
Lieutenant-Governor, Hon. John Beverley Robinson. Branch 
libraries were early established. There are now four 

* The Free Libraries Act was passed by the Ontario Legislature 
in March, 1882. 



127 

such branches, where hooks can be obtained, viz., North, 
at Saint Paul's Hall ; East, at Bolton Avenue ; West, at 
Dundas Street; and at Saint Andrew's market. The 
present collection consists of 75,000 volumes, to which yearly 
additions are made : divided, as a circulating library of 
42,000 ; and 33,000 as a reference library. The number 
of readers for last year was 31,500 ; 22,000 of whom 
obtained books from the central library. The total issue of 
books this year is estimated at half a million. The institu- 
tion is unusually rich in books bearing upon the history of 
the continent, especially in all that relates to Canada, to 
which branch of study special attention is given. * 

It is also in possession of complete sets of the Societies' 
publications, such as the Maitland Club, the Camden, the 
Shakespeare, etc., etc. Several valuable MSS. have been 
collected, especially the }3apers of Sir David W. Smyth, the 
first surveyor-general of Upper Canada from 1794 to 1804. 
They consist of twenty-four MS. volumes, and contain copies 
of his reports, with the letters addressed to him by Governor 
Simcoe and the leading men of that date. They include 
the original applications for land grants from the U.E. 
Loyalists ; the original plans of towns and villages, minutes 
of the commissioners, with several hundred private letters. 
So valuable is this collection that it is a matter of wonder 
that it escaped the unceasing vigilance of the British Museum 
librarians. 

Our own government is unfortunately indifferent regarding 
such acquisitions, for any surprise to be expressed that it 
passed unnoticed in Ottawa. With proper representation 
the House of Commons is most liberal in such votes. The 

* On this matter I can speak with confidence. Through the con- 
siderate kindness of the librarian, Mr. Bain, I have obtained access 
to books which I could find nowhere else. 



128 

Minister lias only to ask to obtain a fair grant for any 
legitimate purpose. Let us hope that the teaching of this 
event will not be lost. We may, however, feel grateful that 
these valuable papers are a permanent acquisition of the 
country. Under the admirable management of the Toronto 
Library they are accessible to the fullest extent. Such 
documents, however, are national, and should be possessed 
by the Archive branch, and included in its system. On such 
special occasions when original papers bearing upon the 
history of the country are offered for sale, the government 
should rise to the height of the occasion, and obtain all 
valuable documents of the class, and not be afraid to pay for 
them what is fair and reasonable. For where there is any 
haggling with regard to the money, those who act with 
liberality gain possession of the prize, and the papers are lost 
by those who should possess them. 

The existence of the present library in Toronto is one of 
the highest honours which the city possesses ; the number 
of readers shows the good use to which it is put. The issue 
of books increases at the rate of ten per cent annually, and, 
what is a healthy symptom, the demand of mere works of 
fiction " steadily decreases." The library authorities have 
been at some pains systematically to determine the fact. I 
owe it to their industry* to be able to state that in 1888 
the proportion of works of fiction issued for home reading 
amounted to 66.5 of the whole : in 1891, it was reduced to 
53.1 per cent. Taking into consideration the miscellaneous 
character of the class of readers gathered from the entire 
population of the city, this proportion may be considered in 
every way encouraging. The whole hope of the future of 
Canada lies in the sound, sober sense of the community, by 



* [Report 1891.] 



129 

which opinion is influenced. It is by reading and thought 
that men of this character are moulded. By slow degrees 
only the class can be increased ; but when the beginning 
is once made, the teaching penetrates into strata, where its 
influence with many is unlooked for. We have passed the 
first stage in Toronto, and there is ground for hope that the 
future will bring forth fair fruit. 

With regard to the library itself, it has already gained a 
deservedly high reputation. In half a century it will be one 
of the foremost institutions of the continent. Its manage- 
ment is unimpeachable. 

In 1885, the library received from alderman John Hallam 
the handsome gift of two thousand volumes, of which a 
special catalogue has been published.* 



The library of the Law Society of Ontario is to be found 
in Osgoode Hall, the seat of the principal law courts and 
chambers of the judges. The society was incorporated in 
1822 : the present building completed in 1860. The library 
is established in a well proportioned chamber, of much 

* I am indebted to Senator Almon for the perusal of a brochure, 
to which I can, with propriety, allude in these pages. "The 
Charter and By-laws of the New York Society Library with a 
catalogue of the books belonging to the said library. New York. 
Printed by H. Gaine, Printer, Bookseller and Stationer, at the 
Bible and Crown in Hanover Square, 1773." 

The Society was established by Royal Charter dated the 9th of 
November, 1772, under the last royal governor William Tryon. 
The catalogue records 477 works, all of them English. Some 
translations of the classics and of French standard works are in the 
list, but no work in those languages. This brochure, is one of the 
many rare books collected by Dr. Almon in connection with the 
history of the continent, of which he has been a diligent student. 
i 



130 

architectural pretension ; from the airiness of the situation 
and the subdued re-echo of the street noise, owing to the 
distance from it, the place is well adapted for study and 
literary examination. 

As can be well imagined, the principal feature is, that it 
is a law library • it contains about 25,000 volumes, and is 
fairly complete in English, Canadian, and United States 
statutes, treatises, legal reports, and modern periodicals ; it 
may, indeed, claim to include the reports of every state and 
territory of the United States. There has been the con- 
tinuous effort to possess every work in our language of 
practical benefit to the profession, all new editions of import- 
ance being obtained on their appearance. The statutes of 
England, from the great charter to modern times, are 
unusually complete. 

The political literature is represented by the parliamentary 
journals and Hansards of the mother country, and of the 
several provinces, with those of the dominion. There are 
excellent editions of the Greek and Latin classics, with from 
2,000 to 3,000 volumes of general historical literature, 
reference dictionaries, biographies, et id genus. What is not 
a common acquisition is a complete series of the Times from 
1805 to 1870. One feels a shade of regret that it has not 
been continued ; the possession of so rare a series suggests 
that it would be wise to resume and complete the collection. 

Many curious law books are on the shelves for reference. 
The original folio editions of the old English reports, dating 
back to the black letter of the seventeenth century ; the 
Statutes of the Eealm, issued by the Kecord Commissioners, 
1235-1704, twelve folio volumes [1810-1828]; the folio 
volumes of " Campbell's MS. Reports," containing the cases 
decided by the judges of the King's Bench [1823-1827] the 
first recorded decisions of the province ; what are known as 



131 

"Taylor's printed reports;" with all modern reports. There 
is likewise a presentation copy of the Queen's printed works 
with her Majesty's autograph. 

The annual increase is 1,200 volumes, the cost of main- 
tenance falling upon the Law Society of Ontario. 

There is much consideration shewn in the regulations 
regarding the books ; indeed, the management leaves little 
to be desired. The library is open from 9 to 5, except in 
vacation, when the hours are from 10 to 3 ; every week- 
day, admission can be obtained from 7.30 to 10 p.m., when 
any person of respectability is admitted with the privilege of 
study. 

There are three well executed life-size portraits by the 
late Mr. Berthon on the walls : viz., of the late Chancellor 
Blake, and the two late Chief-Justices, Sir John Beverley 
Robinson and Sir James B. Macaulay.* 

I am generally indebted to the courtesy of the present 
librarian, Mr. W. Geo. Eakins, for being able to give the 
above information. 



I have endeavoured in these pages to place on record 
much which, I humbly conceive, should not be allowed to 
pass out of notice, and which I trust will not be without its 
usefulness. I do not pretend that the enumeration in any 
one class is perfect ; but I may say, that the facts open to 
investigation have been diligently examined. No unim- 
portant stage in any generalization is attained, when it can 
be established that error exists, for it is the first step towards 
its rectification. The volume, at least, is an attempt to 

* I have been informed that some of the friends of the late Mr. 
Hillyard Cameron have considered the advisability of obtaining a 
well executed portrait of this distinguished jurist and amiable man. 



132 

place in accessible form all that is known of the subject of 
which it treats ; so that the student may have a starting- 
point in his research, and the collector be aided in his 
attempt to bring together the volumes which bear upon the 
early history of the Dominion. 

In the degree that the political literature of a country is 
studied, and its teaching wisely applied, the institutions 
under which men live become more adapted to human 
wants. Every one, however limited his education, desires a 
pure system of law and justice, administered by capable and 
honourable men. Likewise, as a theory, every individual 
recognizes the necessity of our representative institutions 
being worked out with integrity and wisdom. The attain- 
ment of this result lies in the public virtue and patriotism of 
constituencies. So long as corruption is rampant in the 
ranks of voters, they will be represented by men who regard 
cunning as ability, trick as policy, impudence of assertion as 
force of argument. We have a painful experience of what 
majorities can, and do vote. Men, honourable in their 
private relations, justify in parliament a line of conduct 
repugnant to the national conscience, which, in their home 
intercourse between man and man, they would scout as 
basely dishonourable. Party spirit has degenerated into the 
doctrine that everything is fair in politics, the one duty 
being to accept the policy which the exigencies of a ministry 
may determine, whatever the meanness of spirit by which it 
is characterized. Some dozen men of ability and force of 
character in the house of commons, with the independence 
of thought, not to be dragged down to sustain what is wrong 
and despicable because the caucus so determined, " the 
deformity of fraud ill-disguised/' would go far to purify our 
political condition, and redeem it from the cancer which is 
destroying all that is honourable and good in public life. It 



133 

is in this direction we have to look for better days. The 
presence of a few such men in parliament who will ably and 
fairly discuss a measure proposed, and conscientiously sus- 
tain or reject it, would, in no long time, work wonders, for it 
would help to form and educate public opinion. It is to 
bring into prominence such men that the effort should be 
continuous to displace the unscrupulous partizan, and the 
uneducated charlatan. 

Constituencies uninfluenced by corruption cannot fail to 
be represented in each case by an honourable man, not by 
the apostle of dishonest expediency. The Horatian maxim, 
"Fortes creantur fortibus et bonis,'' 1 is as politically true of a 
community as when Horace asked that the youth of Eome 
should by strict discipline be taught virtue and patriotism.* 

It would be a fortunate day for Canada if Ave could banish 
to limbo, as Milton describes it, the paradise of fools, the politi- 
cal leader, successful only by his subterfuge and purchased 
support : the individual, profuse in his professions, unscru- 
pulous in his preservation of power, poltroon-like secretly 
striking all whose opposition he dreads, retaining at his bid- 
ding an expectant crowd ready by servile meanness to gain 
advancement. We only OAve it to constituencies, when this 
repellent personage comes into prominence. In order to 
avoid this national misfortune, the first condition is, that the 
voter be guided to a proper sense of his elective duty ; and 

* Doctrina sed vim promovet insitam, 
Recteque cultus pectora roborant ; 
Utcumque defecere mores, 
Indecorant bene nata culpae. 

Odes, iv., 4. 

Honest men are produced by the honest and good. 

But good teaching improves the natural force of character, and the culture of 
what is right gives strength to the heart ; wherever morality is wanting vice 
degrades endowments in themselves excellent. 



134. 

before we succeed in inculcating a purer political philosophy, 
we must break some of the images of clay which have been 
set up for our worship. We must also chase away the false 
theories of ability too generally accepted, and cease to regard 
as proper for imitation, that which is inherently vicious. 
We must begin to teach, in the impressionable years of 
youth, the penalty inflicted on the Commonwealth by the 
abandonment of good principles. If the lessons of history 
have any worth, they shew, that however great a temporary 
success may be, there is a hereafter, which places at its right 
estimate every departure from honesty, and that the power 
achieved by fraud, has no permanency of place for good in 
the nation's memory. 

The records of the past are worthy of continued study, 
from the teaching which they give to shape the present, by 
shewing that in the long race of life, the well-being of a 
community lies in the observance of what is right, As with 
individuals it is with masses of men. Passionate wrong, and 
injustice, work back their effect on those who commit them. 
Success foully gained, retains the taint of the corruption 
whence it is generated. As history appeals to us, it extends 
the warning to constituencies, that if they and their children's 
children are to be prosperous and happy, they must act in 
accordance with the responsibilities which accompany the 
privileges they possess • that personally in each individual 
case they sustain the principles by which nations prosper 
and become great, and that failure in the performance of this 
duty brings disaster and ruin. This is the truth we learn 
from the earliest record of traditional history, and it furnishes 
one of the many urgent reasons, why its sources should be 
earnestly sought out, and their truth established. 

THE END. 



ADDENDUM. 

The following publication lias to be included in the early 
printed books of Ontario, described pp. 27-42 : 

"The | Constitution | of the | Bible | and Common Prayer 
Book | Society | of Upper Canada | established in the town 
of York | on the 3rd day of December 1816 | with an 
address | and a list of the | subscribers and contributors | 
York | Printed by R. C. Home 1816." 16pp. 



i:n t dex. 



Address to liege men.&c. [1822] 28 

Alexander the Great, life of [reprint] 

[1831] 42 

Alexander, J. E. [afterwards Sir 

James [1833] 84 

Alexander, J. L. [1825] 30 

Almanac, first 17 

American Revolution ; History scrip- 
ture style [1823] 61 

Amos, A. [1820] 65 

Anbury, Thomas [1789] 44 

Anderson, David [1814] 56 

Archive Branch, Ottawa, 21 ; its influ- 
ence on historical writing, 23; better 

building required 27 

Arfewedson, C. D. [1834] 88 

Backwoods-man, A [1833] 87 

Bain, James, Mr., Toronto Library: 
his efforts to obtain early printed 
books Ontario, 7 ; an authority with 
regard to printing first journals, 13 ; 
the assistance rendered by him.100, 111 

Bannister, John William [1821] 68 

Bell, Rev. ¥m. [1824] ._ 70 

Bennett's Almanac [1802] 20 

Bethune, Bishop [1829] 36 

Bettridge, W. [1838] 96 

Biot, J. Baptiste 25 

Blaney, Captain [1824]. 72 

Bossange, Gustave [1821] 65 

Bouchette, Col. Joseph [1815-1831].... 58 

Boulton, D' Arcy [1805]. 52 

Boulton, Henry John [1826] 73 

Bouquet papers 23 

Brymner, Dr., archivist, 6 ; reports, 22; 

assistance rendered by him 100, 111 

Buchanan, A. C. [1828]. 75 

Buller, Charles [1840J....: 99 

Byron, Gait's life of [reprint] [1832].. 42 

Canadas, The, as they now are [1833J. 81 

Canadian, A [1830] 77 

Canadian Review [1824-6] 29 

Canadian's right same as English- 
man's [reprint] [1823] 41 



Campbell, P. [1793] 45 

Cartwright, George, Labrador [1792]. 44 
Casault, Mr., Custodian of Coins, 

Library, Ottawa 116 

Cattermole, William [1831] 78 

Cauchon, Hon. J., moves amendment 

to address, 1854, 105; as Speaker 

gives ball new building library 10? 

Celtic Society U.C. [1837] 37 

Changes of seat of government [1850- 

1866] 102 

Chancery Court of U.C. established.35n. 

Chappell, Edward, Lieut. [1817] 59 

Chastellux, Marquis de [1788] 43 

Chauveau, late Sheriff 5 

Chisholme, David. 36 

Christie, Dr. A. J 29 

Christie, Mr. A. J., Ottawa 29 

Citizen, A of Edinburgh [1835] 89 

Claims of the Churchwardens and 

Dissenters of U.C. ri828] 33 

Clarke, Sir Alured, Lieut.-Governor 

Quebec 9 

Coke, Lieut. E. T. [1833] 86 

Collins, Francis, Alien Question [1826] 30 

Communion Tokens, Canadian 119 

Conder, Joseph [1831] 78 

Conder Tokens .117 

Cooper, Thomas [1794] 45 

Constitution of the Canadas [1833] .... 3? 
Cox, Ross [1831] 78 

Dainvllle, D. [1821]. 65 

Dalton, Wm. [1821] 67 

Davis, Stephen [1833] 83 

DeCelles,Mr 5 

De Foe, true born Englishman [re- 
print] [1823] 41 

De Roos, Lieut. R. N. [1827] 74 

DeWette.L. [1838] 96 

Desmasures, Rev., Saint Sulpician... 5 
Dorchester, Lord, Governor-General 

[1791] - 8 

Douglas, John [1819]. 61 

Doyle, Martin [1831] 78 



138 



Duncan, John M. [1823] 69 

Dunlop, Dr. [" The Tiger "] [1833] 87 

Eardley-Wilmot, John [1815] 57 

Elgin, Lord, prorogues Parliament, 

1854.. 105 

English farmer [1820] 64 

Evans. Francis A. [1833] 82 

Ex-Settler [1835] 89 

Fergusson, Adam [1834].. 87 

Fire, 25th April, 1849, loss to province.101 

Fidler , Rev. Isaac [1833] 85 

Finan, P. [1828] 75 

Finn, Henry J. [1821] 66 

Finch, J. [1833]. 85 

Form of Prayer [1814] 27 

Fothergill, Mr., his almanacks, 20; 

dismissal as Queen's printer, 20; 

sketch present state of Canada 

[1822] 29 

Franchere, Gabriel [1820] 1 62 

Frearon, H. B. [1818] 61 

French regime. Coinage during 118n. 

Fuller, Thomas, architect exterior of 

library 107 

Gagnon, P., Mr., Saint Koch, Quebec, 

furnishes names printed books 7 

Gourlay, John Fleming, account, &c. 
[1822], lln.; pamphlet [1818], 28; 
Townships, Hope and Hamilton 
[1818], 28, statistical account [1822].. 67 

Gourlay, William [1833] 82 

Governors' portraits, their value and 

authenticity 6 

Gowan, Ogle R. [1830].... 36 

Gray, Hugh [1814].... 53 

Grece, Charles Frederick [1819] 61 

Haldimand papers 23 

Hall, Captain Basil [1829] 77 

Hall, Francis, Lieut. [1818] 59 

Hallo well [nowPicton]. 37 

Hamilton, town of 46 

Harmon, Daniel Williams [1820] 63 

Hart, Mrs., Fredericton 30 

Hawley, Sheldon, vs. George Hand 

[1826] 36 

Head, Sir Francis Bond [1839] 97 

Head, Sir George [1838] 94 

Henry, Alexander [1809] 53 

Heriot, George [180?].. 52 

Hill, S. S. [1837] • 92 



Hodgson, Adam [1824] 72 

Hope and Hamilton, Townships, 

meeting [1818] 28 

Howison, John [1821]...' 66 

Hume, George Henry [1832] 79 

Hunt, Gilbert J. [1819].. 61 

Hunter, Peter, Governor, no portrait 

known 6 

Inches, James [1836] 91 

Indian Lands obtained by purchase. 48 
Items in life of an usher [1855] 39 

Jackson, John Mills [1809] 53 

Jameson, Mrs. [1838] 94 

Jarvis, S. P.'[1828] 32 

Johnston, Thomas [1827] 74 

Journals House of Assembly, first 

known printed volume, 1801, 12; 

their unsatisfactory condition, 13; 

should be reprinted 15 

King's College, York, charter of [1828] 35 
Kingston, civic rule, reflections on 
[1827].... 32 

Lake Erie, boundary line 48 

Lambert, John [1810] 54 

Lamond, Robert [1821] 67 

La Rochefaucault-Liancour [1798] 49 

Late Resident [1833] 81 

Latrobe, Charles Joseph [1835] 89 

Legislature, first, of Upper Canada 

[1792] 9 

Legislative Library, Ontario 125 

Leroux, Dr., Volume Canadian coin- 
age 117 

Library, Ottawa, losses, fire 1st Feb., 
1854 , 104 ; new building, 107 ; addi- 
tional space required, 107 : tempo- 
rary expedient suggested, 109; de- 
scription of volumes, 110-113 ; injury 
to books, 113 ; catalogue, 114 ; collec- 
tion of coins 116 

Lindsey, C, Toronto... 33 

Logan, James [1838] 95 

Lower Canada, Watchman, The [1829] 35 
Lome, Lord, obtained honour for Dr. 
Todd, 41 ; chairman committee con- 
tributions Toronto University 121 

Mackenzie, Sir Alexander [1801] 51 

Mackenzie, E. [1819] 62 



139 



Mackenzie, William Lyon, Alma- 
nacks 20; Destruction Colonial 
Advocate [1827], 31 ; Statement pre- 
tended Bank of Upper Canada, 
Kingston [1827], 32; Legislative 
Black list, Upper Canada [1823] 32 ; 

Sketches of Canada [1833] 84 

Mactaggart, John [1829] . 76 

Magrath, T. W..[1833] 86 

Maitland, Sir Peregrine; his treat- 
ment of Gourlay 68; "a friend to 

religion" 70 

Maitland, the lady Sarah .. 71 

Mahomed, life of [reprint] [1831] 42 

Melish, J. [1814] '. 56 

Molesworth, Sir William [1838] 95 

Montreal riot, 15th April, [1849] 101 

Morgan, Lt. J. C. [1824] 72 

Morris, Alexander, Legacy to Queens.123 
Mowat. Sir Oliver, obtains votes for 
portraits, 7; his sympathy with 
literature, 14; his acceptance of 

knighthood considered 14?i. 

Mudie, Robert [1732]. 79 

Murray, Hugh [1829] 76 

McCaul, Dr. his scholarship 120 

McDonald, John [1822].... 68 

M'Gregor. John [1S32] 81 

McLachlan, R. W., Mr., Work on 
Communion Tokens.. 119 

Naturalization Bill [1827] 31 

Xelson, life of, by Southey [reprint] . 42 
Nielson, Joseph[1837] 37 

Ogden, J. C. [1797] 50 

Orthoepy, Manual of, [1801] 39 

Osgoode Hall, Toronto Library 129 

Ottawa, first parliament held Sth 
June, 1866 ....... 106 

Palmer, John [1818].... 60 

Pamphlets, their value 26n. 

Parliamentary practice, manual of 

[1S28] 35 

Parliamentary Library [see library]. 107 

Picken, Andrew [1832]... 80 

Pickering, Joseph [1832] 80 

Picton, town of 37 

Portraits, governors of Ontario 6 

Preston, T. R [1840] 99 

Prince Regent, pamphlet, lands &c. 

[1818].... 28 

Protestant dissenters, address to 

[1828] 35 



Quebec house of Assembly fire, 1st 
February, 1854, 103 ; fire, 30th May, 
1854, 105 ; last session held 30th 

June, 1886 103 

Quebec, province of, literary history 

5; division of 9 

Queen's picture saved, fire Montreal.101 
Queen's University, Kingston Li- 
brary 123 

Queenst on, affair of 1812 [1836] 90 

Quinte, bay of 46 

Read, Mr. David, lives of the justices 34 
Religious discourses, by the author 

of Waverley [1828] 33 

Robinson, Sir John Beverley, speech 
conferring civil rights [1825], 30 ; 
[1824], 71 ; letter to George Hillier 

[1828] 33 

Robinson, Hon. Beverley, collected 
portraits of governors, 6 ; opened 

Toronto public library 126 

Robinson, Colonel Charles 6 

Rolph, Thomas Dr. [1836] 91 

Rosier, E, [1839].... 97 

Roy, Louis, printer 11 

Ryerson, Revd. Egerton, [1828] 33 

Ryerson, Revd. Egerton, [1837]. 92 

Salles de laTerriere [1830] 77 

Sandham, Alfred, author first book 

Canadian Coins [1869] 117 

Samson, Joseph [1817] 58 

Schlosser's letters [1772-1793] ...113 

Scott, Mr. Thomas S., architect inte- 
rior of library 107 

Selkirk, Thomas, earl of [1818] 60 

Sermon and Catechism for children 

[1822] 29 

Sewell, Hon. Jonathan [1814] 56 ; [1824] 71 

Sheriff, Patrick [1835] 89 

Sicotte, Hon. L. V. (Judge) 105 

Silliman, Benjamin [1820] 62 

Simcoe, John Graves, Lt.-Gov. Upper 
Canada, arrives at Quebec, 9 ; pro- 
clamation division province, 9 ; first 
speech [1792], 9 ; inquiry as to printed 
copy, 10; his relations with the 

due de Rochefoucault •_ 49 

Simcoe, Mrs., wife of above, her ad- 
mirable character 49 

Six years in the bush [1838] 95 

Smart, C. [1821] 66 

Smith, M., geographical view [1813].. 54 



140 



Smyth, Sir D. W. [1799 : 1813], 55 ; 'his 
papers in possession of Toronto 

Library ...127 

Society promoting Christian Know- 
ledge Report [1827] 32 

Sockett, T. [1833].. 83 

Sources of information 100 

Stansbury,P. [1822] 67 

State papers in Archives 24 

Statutes printed at early date, 15; 

general account of 16 

Strachan, I. [1820] 64 

Strachan, Bishop [1824], 73 ; his efforts 

on behalf Trinity D niversity 124 

Stuart, Archdeacon George, Okill 

Sermon [1827] 31 

Stuart, C. [1820] — 63 

Sussex Emigrants, letters from [1833] 84 
Sutherland,Robert, legacy to Queen's 

library 123 

Sylvain,Mr 100 

St. Lawrence River, mode of Travel 

[1796] ....51-70 

St. Ursula's Convent [1824] 29 

Talbot, Edward Allen [1823] 72 

Thanks, official, donations to library.106 
Thompson, David, hitherto supposed 
first book, 7 ; History of late War 

[1832] - 37 

Thomson, John Lewis [1818] 59 

Tiff any 's Almanac [1802].. 18 

Tobacco, directions for raising [1828] 35 
Todd, Alpheus, Dr., Practice and 
Privileges of Parliament [1840], 39 ; 
subsequent works, 40; injustice 
experienced on publication, parlia- 
mentary government in Colonies.. 40 



Todd, Henry Cook, Notes upon 
Canada and the United States [1840] 38 

Tokens : English, 117; Canadian 117 

Toronto, attack of, 27th April, 1813.... 75 
Toronto Public Library, 125 ; its influ- 
ence 1 128 

Toronto University Library, 120; 

present condition 122 

Trail, Mrs. [1836] 92 

Trinity University, Toronto, Library.124 
Tully, Kivas, Mr., architect.. 124 

Upper Canada Gazette. 11 

Upper Canada, 1794, description of, 
[^95] 46 

Vaux, Charles Grant, Vicomte de 
[1794] 45 

Verreault, TAbb£, 5 ; archive report. 22 

Wakefield, E. Gibbon [1837]. 93 

Wandering Rhymer, The [1826] 31 

Weld, Isaac, Travels [1799] 51 

Wells, William Benjamin [1837] 93 

Weston, Richard [1836] 90 

Williams, William [1823] 29 

Willis, Mr. Justice, dispute with gov- 
ernment [1827].. 33 

Wilson, Sir Daniel. 122n. 

Wilson, H. [1823] 69 

York, Upper Canada, Bible Society 

[1828] 35 

Young, Geo. R. [1834] 88 

Zay, Histoire Monetaire des Colonies 
Francaises 118n. 



i«Sfi5 Y 0F CONGRESS 



028 948 566 1 



